Charlie Sifford
Player Charlie Sifford and PGA Tour vice-president Ty Votaw were honoured by the PGA of America with its Charlie Sifford Award for maintaining and building “the spirit in advancing diversity in golf”.
The award recognises recipients for their contributions to advancing racial and gender equality, culture and the enhancement of golf as a professional sport.
Sifford was instrumental in the sport’s first integrated major, the 1963 US Open at Brookline.
“It is special to be recognised by the PGA of America,” said Sifford.
“And to have Ty as a part of this honour is a unique privilege because it gives him added credibility and recognition for the efforts he has made to ensure equality in the golf industry.”
Votaw will also present the award on 27 March during the Honda Classic at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
“From his amazing role in the history of the first major to helping define this diverse playing field and inspire young kids across America to play the game, I’m honoured to present this award on behalf of the PGA of America and the entire golf family,” said Votaw.