Golf Greats Nicklaus, Player, Langer & Jacklin Lead Tributes On Occasion AGWs 80th Anniversary (June 2nd, 1938 – June 2nd, 2018)

Some of golf’s greatest stars have congratulated the Association of Golf Writers (AGW) on our  80th anniversary.

The AGW was founded on Thursday 2nd June, 1938 during the Walker Cup at St. Andrews and Saturday 2nd June, 2018 marks the AGWs 80th birthday.

While the rporting of golf has changed greatly in the ensuring eight decades the principles and objectives of the AGW remain steadfast.

Hereunder you will find a wonderful collection of tributes.

Firstly, there is tributes by former Presidents and Chairmen of the AGW while our longest-living fellow members, Ben Wright and John Ingham who each joined the Association 60-years ago this year in 1958, have also paid tribute to the AGW.

AGW Vice-Presidents Sir. Michael Bonallack OBE, Tony Jacklin (CBE), Bernhard Langer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player have offered their tributes.

The respective heads of the R & A, the European Tour, the USGA and the PGA of America and also AGW good friend Sandy Jones have added the words of congratulations.

As well, past AGW Golfer of the Year winners Padraig Harrington, Rory McIlroy and Henrik Stenson have kindly afforded their congratulations.

There were 33 golf writers who decided that day in June 1938 to launch the Association and I sure they each would be proud to learn the AGW now boasts a total of 415 golf writers, from across the golf reporting world, to have joined the Association since that very first gathering in St. Andrews.

AGW PRESIDENTS/CHAIRMEN – PAST AND PRESENT

Donald Steel – AGW President 1993 -1998, Treasurer 1977-1990.

Oak trees from little acorns grow”.  The AGW might well adopt that as a motto on the 80th anniversary.

The “acorns” were the garden sheds that housed a small band with barely a chair or table and, at best, a blackboard to relay patchy information. The “oak tree” evolved into air-conditioned Media Centres for 2,000 or more with every conceivable mod-con.

For such an extraordinary transformation, the AGW’s indebtedness is vast but, equally important, it remains an assorted assembly of kindred spirits with a common cause.

It is a well proven formula of how respected rivals become lifelong friends.

MICHAEL MCDONNELL – AGW President 1998 – 2004, Chairman 1992 – 1995. 

For us in 1965 the golf season began with the Sunningdale and Wentworth Foursomes in Spring (for pros and amateurs) and ended in October with the World Match-Play event at Wentworth.

Back then you waited for an invitation to become a member of the AGW, which was essentially a home-based group.

But with the expansion of the game, golf writing became international and the AGW ranks are now enriched by journalistic talent from all over the world

RENTON LAIDLAW – AGW President 2004 – 2015, Chairman 1995 – 1998, Secretary 1978 – 1995)

It is great for the AGW with what we have achieved over the past 80 years. The Association began with the small matter of striving to improve the working conditions of the written journalist and the relationship we’ve had with the various golfing bodies over the last 80 years would prove the Association has done a good job.

It is much better now to be a golf reporter than it used to be in the old days.

We originally asked for very little to be done but then work undertaken by all the golfing authorities, including the R & A and the European Tour, has been outstanding.

The role of the golf writer has changed so much since I joined the Association in 1963 as I never had to worry about twitter or emails as my concern was either the newspaper or the radio.

It is a much more complicated business nowadays but I would like to think the AGW has made it easier for those golf writers of today to carry out their duties.

I recall when I joined the AGW I was being closely monitored by Ronald Heager (AGW Secretary 1963 – 1978) as it was also quiet clicky organization back then and it Ron who gave the okay to new members.  He was final man who made the decision if were to join or not.

But in saying that I have thoroughly enjoyed being a member of the Association now for 55-years and most honoured and very proud to have been President, Chairman and also Secretary of the Association.

GORAN ZACHRISSON – AGW President (2015 – present)

Chaos has reigned, as well as total confusion and only Bernard Darwin could have dealt with it, no problem. You see I reached 80 only a few days ago and realised that life has a way of giving less to those who need it more.

Memory is gone, as is appetite and the ability to commit yourself to a summersault.

Bernard Darwin would have put it in a much more humoristic way and he would have described his condition without mentioning his name.

He had a way of putting the most awkward situations in a very gentle way. He was eloquent, even if he were writing a paragraph in a storm, with rain in a press tent that had blown away.

A man to admire and to respect, not only for his knowledge of the game, but for his character and personality. He did what most journalists do not dare to do…he let his own observations dictate his piece to the paper.

We, who represent The Association of Golf Writers honour Bernard Darwin and the future for the Association is as far away from my own, as things can be.

Some get older, others get younger, l more vigorous, more inventive and always better.

I am proud to be a member and to be its present President.

JOHN HOPKINS – Chairman (1998 – 2007)

Organisations with three initials have had an inordinate influence on my life – WRU, RFU, RAC, MCC and, most importantly, the AGW.

I am proud to have been a chairman of the AGW and hope that, in my time, it did not fall into complete disarray.

Happy 80th birthday AGW.

LEWINE MAIR – Chairwoman (2007 – 2010)

This is such a great event to celebrate. All the other sporting organisations seem to envy the Association of Golf Writers’ and, for my part, I love nothing so much as how we now boast writers from all over the golfing globe.

I helped to recruit Joy Chakravarty some eight years ago and he is just one of those from far-flung places to revel in being a part of our organisation. Nick Dye, though he is rather more local, is another who made plain that an invitation to join our ranks meant a lot, which is exactly what you want to hear.

Another thing to warm the heart is the way we stay in touch with those who have retired and send hampers at Christmas to those who have been unwell. Whatever it might cost, it is well worthwhile.

We have had any number of great members across the years who have contributed towards making us the worthy affair we have become and is reflected that bodies such as the R&A, the USGA, the PGA of America etc., etc., care what we say – and long may that last.

BILL ELLIOTT – Chairman (2010 – 2013)

HAPPY 80th birthday to the AGW and all its members.

Actually 80 doesn’t seem that old to me these days but it’s been a pleasure to have been a member for the last 39 of those years and an absolute privilege to have been elected chairman for (nearly) three of those years.

There are a lot of rival organisations in the old sports journalism world but none in my experience execute their primary duty of improving working conditions for members better than we do. That we all also form lifelong friendships along the way is a wonderful bonus. We remain a disparate group but, for the most part, a united one. More power to our collective elbow.

It’s my intention to make the centenary celebrations or die in the attempt.

DEREK LAWRENSON – Chairman (2013 – 2016)

Eighty years is a mighty effort from an organisation where all the people who have held positions of office have done so without monetary reward and the sole aim of furthering the association’s cause.

We can be proud of the esteem in which we are held by all the golfing bodies; proud, too, of all the members past and present who undoubtedly belong in the highest echelon of sports writing.

IAIN CARTER – AGW Chairman  (2016 – present)

I would like to think of the AGW reaching this auspicious landmark as being 80 years young rather than old.  We are constantly trying to meet the challenge of adapting to the ever-changing media landscape to try to achieve the best working conditions for our members.

In that respect, we are as relevant as we have ever been despite the dwindling numbers of golf reporters on the road.  Furthermore, our tradition for looking out for each other remains as strong as ever – for example our Christmas hampers which are always so well received.

We should feel very proud of the association as it seeks to move with the times and for me it is a great honour to be Chairman at the time of our 80th birthday.

AGW’S CURRENT LONGEST-LIVING MEMBERS

BEN WRIGHT – Joined AGW 1958.

Although I sought fleeting fame and, thankfully lasting good fortune in the United States of America, my roots in the U.K. and membership of the Association of Golf Writers has always been dear to my heart.

I have always regarded myself as a writer first, and broadcaster second, in fact, much to the chagrin of my late CBS TV boss Frank Chirkinian!

I am excited that the beloved AGW has progressed from humble origins to its position of importance in the game of golf 80 years later, and humbly offer my hearty congratulations to you all on such a stellar achievement.

I doubt whether I shall be around to celebrate your centenary, so I shall be raising at least one glass, and more likely several, to the AGW on June 2nd!

JOHN INGHAM – Joined AGW 1958.

As a then 25-year boyish-looking kid first working in Fleet Street for the London Evening Standard to now, at age 86 and approaching life’s departure gate, I look back with extreme pride in being an AGW member.

The AGW gave me travel (35 countries) meeting famous folk, and becoming friends including Sir Henry Cotton who fixed my honeymoon at Penina with a two-week freebee that impressed my American wife.

I recall interviewing Bobby Jones in his room at Rusacks in 1958, and a young guy asked me if he could have the tape of the interview.  I told him I had used a new-fangled biro.

We had five editions a day.  My first call was 7am for the racing edition.  Fleet Street 3000 Reverse charge. Ingham calling.  The copy taker:  “Where are you?”  Carnoustie.  “Where is that?”

Neil Coles told me golf wasn’t a game, but a business.  Even dear Leonard Crawley and Henry Longhurst understood this.  To me, they were family.  The AGW was a ‘Finishing School’ but few knew what the job entailed.  Full and total work.

I loved every minute.  Percy Huggins gave me a full-time job on Golf Monthly which lasted 22 years, thanks to his successor, fun guy Malcolm Campbell.  Then came Alfred Dunhill.  Thirteen different countries, more than £4m a year to run it.

Now, I’m dressed in the most expensive clothes seen on any 93 ‘bus.

Wishing everyone at the AGW a very special happy birthday.

AGW VICE-PRESIDENTS

Sir Michael Bonallack OBE – AGW Vice-President

Both as a player and afterwards in my position as Secretary of the R & A, I always enjoyed and appreciated the close and friendly relationship that existed with the AGW.

Congratulations on your 80 years of covering the game of golf for the benefit of countless thousands of followers.

TONY JACKLIN CBE – AGW Vice-President

It’s been an honour and a privilege to be a Vice President of the Association of Golf Writers.

I have many good friends in the Association, both past and present.

It’s a great pleasure for me to congratulate the Association on its upcoming 80^th anniversary.

BERNHARD LANGER – AGW Vice-President

It’s awesome and many congratulations the AGW is celebrating 80 years as it a fantastic achievement.

The golf writers are always a big part of the game of golf and especially professional golf because they communicate the message and help grow the game among the masses.

I’ve always enjoyed a great relationship with the golf writers and that continues now as a proud vice-president of the Association. You know a lot about the game, the personalities and the characters, so it a very important part you play.

Personally, I appreciate the wonderful camaraderie we have had over the years and the relationship we have enjoyed.

So, continue the great work and a very happy 80^th birthday.

JACK NICKLAUS – AGW Vice-President

I’ve always had a lot of good friends among the Association of Golf Writers and my heartiest congratulations on the occasion of your 80^th anniversary.

The golf writers have always been kind to me throughout my career and the members of the Association are no exception, and with so many who I have gotten to know very well over the years.

I was extremely honoured when asked me to become a vice—president of the Association and it’s my great pleasure to wish the Association congratulations and hope everyone has a happy 80^th anniversary and also wishing you many more happy anniversaries.

HEADS OF LEADING GOLF BODIES

MARTN SLUMBERS – Chief Executive, R & A

On behalf of all at the R&A I would like to warmly congratulate the Association of Golf Writers as it celebrates the 80th anniversary of its founding.

A great many wonderful writers and keen supporters of golf have been involved in the association over the years and regaled us all with their vivid accounts of some of golf’s greatest championships and players.

We are delighted to see the association pass this notable milestone and look forward to working with them for many more years to come.”

KEITH PELLEY – Chief Executive, European Tour

On behalf of everyone at the European Tour, I extend my warmest congratulations to the Association of Golf Writers on reaching the milestone of an 80^th anniversary year. I have enjoyed getting to know many of the current members over the past three years and I have also appreciated the insight, knowledge and honesty they have brought to our conversations.

The story of golf is constantly evolving but as with any narrative, it needs people to bring the story to life which is why the work the golf writers do throughout the year to promote our great sport is so vital. It goes without saying that we greatly appreciate and value the efforts of the AGW. Here’s to your next 80 years!

MIKE DAVIS, CEO, United States Golf Association (USGA)

On behalf of the USGA, please allow me to congratulate the Association of Golf Writers on the celebration of its 80th year!

The volumes of well-crafted words by this august body of journalists indeed have made the game better.

Here’s to another successful 80 years!

PAUL LEVY, President, PGA of America

The PGA of America is delighted to congratulate the Association of Golf Writers on the grand celebration of your 80^th Anniversary!

Since your historic founding at St. Andrews during the 1938 Walker Cup though today, the AGW membership has established a remarkable relationship with golf’s governing bodies—including the PGA of America— as well as with promoters of golf worldwide.

You should be especially proud of the countless accomplishments your members have achieved and for AGW’s ability to represent the golf press in a highly professional manner and style.

The game of golf owes your members a sincere debt of gratitude for how you have promoted and elevated the game through your tireless dissemination of golf news and information.

The PGA of America is proud of our long -standing relationship with the AGW, as together we work to grow the great game of golf across the world.

Three cheers to all, as you commemorate the Association of Golf Writers’ 80 years of excellence!

SANDY JONES, PGA Executive President

The members of the Association of Golf Writers have for the last eight decades brought much pleasure to several generations of golf fans.

During that time the game has seen many changes but one thing has not changed. That is the commitment and dedication of all AGW members who have strived to keep all golf fans fully informed on all things Golf.

I therefore offer all best wishes and congratulations to the AGW on this 80th Anniversary.

PAST AGW GOLFER OF THE YEAR WINNERS

PADRAIG HARRINGTON – AGW Golfer of the Year 2007 & 2008

I know that the golfers need the golf writers and the golf writers need us and it’s very much not a them and us working relationship as all media is essential to the future of the game.

Clearly the written media of the past was more important and it is true they are struggling to find their place in this modern media era given the impact of social media.

In saying that I do believe that there is nothing better than reading a good written article and at the end of day you’re not going to get the same depth via social media that a good written article will generate.

For golf writers and like those who are members of the Association it is all about creating that story of substance that people want to read and therein lies the importance of the golf writer.

So that is why it has been good for me to work with rather than be alienated or pushed aside and that is why I have been thrilled to have and continue to enjoy a great relationship with the golf writers and the Association.

I am surprised the Association is only 80-years old as there has been so many changes in that time, so my congratulations to the Association in this your 80^th year.

RORY MCILROY – AGW Golfer of the Year 2012, 2013 & 2014

I have always enjoyed a great relationship with the members of the AGW who remain a very important part of every golf tournament.

The AGW has honoured me three times with the Golf Writers trophy and it has been an award I’ve been extremely proud to receive.

Congratulations to all my friends at the AGW on your 80th anniversary.

HENRY STENSON – AGW Golfer of the Year 2013 & 2016

I am here to play golf and the golf writers are here to report about what we do, and it’s always fun for me to bring a bit of banter and humour into it and most journalists seem to appreciate what I say.

I also have been extremely honoured and grateful to have been chosen twice as the AGWs ‘Golfer of the Year’ first in 2013 and then two years ago in winning The Open.

So, here’s wishing the Association a very happy 80^th anniversary birthday.

 

Tributes compiled by Bernie McGuire, Secretary AGW