Members of the AGW are saddened to learn of the death of Arnold Palmer, one of the most influential figures the game of golf has ever known.
Regarded by his army of fans as “The King” and as “Mr Palmer” by the generations of players who followed him, he laid the foundations for the professional game as we know it today.
Many of us have been writing and broadcasting obituaries and tributes since the sad news broke on Sunday night. The scale of the coverage speaks volumes for the way Arnold transcended golf.
As the Daily Telegraph’s James Corrigan told listeners to BBC 5Live, he was golf’s Muhammad Ali. James also noted that Arnold is probably the reason he – and fellow golf writers – have their jobs and careers.
Anyone who attended one of his press conferences or was lucky enough to interview the great man can tell you of his warmth, charisma and newsworthiness.
In 2006 my 5Live colleague Nicky Campbell began an interview with Arnold by noting that there are two things you can enjoy without being particularly good at them – sex and golf.
His interviewee chuckled away before mischievously making it abundantly clear that he remained perfectly capable of partaking in both activities.
It wasn’t just funny, it was great radio and illustrated how Arnold connected so successfully with people of all ages all over the world.
My personal experiences in his company were limited to a couple of brief but charming interviews and several captivating press conferences that would invariably set the news agenda on those days.
There will be members who will have shared many more times with this legendary golfer, and any reminiscences you might wish to share would be gratefully received.
In the meantime, our sympathies and thoughts are with the Palmer family following the loss of such an extraordinary life.
Iain Carter, Chairman, AGW
Hazeltine, Minnesota – 26th September, 2016
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