Lee Elder is the first African-American to break the color barrier and play in the Masters Golf Tournament. He was born in 1934 in Dallas. His father died in WWII, and his mother shortly thereafter. With Elder’s sister running the household, he was lured to golf as a way to earn additional income for the family.
He began caddying at the all-White Tennison Park Golf Club in Dallas and soon became favored by the head pro of the course, who allowed him to slip in after hours to play on the mostly obscured back six holes.
Over time, Elder became an accomplished golfer who eventually attracted the attention of hustler and con artist “Titanic” Thompson. Using Thompson’s financial backing, Elder began playing in tournaments while honing his skills in the game and developing the ability to succeed under pressure.
He joined the all-Black United Golfers Association (UGA) in 1959 and began the domination of the Association that would last for nearly eight years.
Lee Elder won four Negro National Open Championships and during one period in 1966, he won an astonishing 18 of the 22 tournaments he played in.
This success enabled Elder to earn the required $6,500 he needed to enter the 1967 qualifying school for the PGA Tour. He qualified easily.
In 1971 Elder became the first Black golfer invited to play in the South African PGA Tournament. His participation in that event made this the first integrated sports event in South Africa since the establishment of the official Apartheid policy in 1948.
Elder and other Black golfers, however, continued to face racial challenges at home. Although the PGA Tour was officially open to African-Americans, it was not friendly to them. Many tournaments would not allow Black golfers into the clubhouse and instead required that they change and eat in the parking lot.
In 1975, Elder made history again in Augusta, Georgia when he was invited to compete at the Masters Open, the most prestigious tournament in golf. With his victory at the 1974 Monsanto Open, Elder automatically qualified for the Masters Open but he also became the first Black player invited.
Although he missed the qualifying round in the tournament, his entrance was an African-American milestone covered by almost every major magazine and news program in the country.
Elder played in five more Masters, won three PGA tournaments and was named to the 1979 Ryder Cup Team. Elder had a combined 12 tournament victories on the PGA and Senior Tours, earning more than $1 million on each tour. His invitation to the Masters in 1975, however, proved that African-Americans could compete at the highest levels of golf.
Source: www.blackpast.org and Photo credit: PVAMU
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
