Confirmed by the US Golf Association, one of the biggest name in all of sports history, Arnold Palmer, has passed away at 87 years of age due to heart complications.
We are deeply saddened by the death of Arnold Palmer, golf’s greatest ambassador, at age 87. pic.twitter.com/iQmGtseNN1
— USGA (@USGA) September 26, 2016
Arnold Palmer’s Legacy Transcended Golf
Palmer’s illustrious career is highlighted by with seven majors and 62 career victories. But he’ll be remembered for what he brought to the sport—charisma and personality. He brought the game from the posh country clubs to the masses. He made the game “cool” and accessible. He was loved and admired by not only golf fans, but fans of sports in general. There are athletes who transcend their sport, and “Arnie” is certainly one of them.
With his first professional career win coming in the 1955 Canadian Open, Palmer enjoyed his greatest success in the 1960s when his star power was at its height. In 1974, he was one of 13 original inductees into the Professional Golf Hall of Fame.
He also arrived on scene at exactly the right time. Television was increasing in popularity and televised tournaments were a new thing. His go-for-broke approach to golf sold the sport to the public.
“Listen, let me tell you what his (Palmer’s) legacy is: Every one of these kids that are playing today should have Arnold Palmer’s picture in their house and kiss it every morning. That’s it.”
~Lee Trevino
Perhaps more than what he did on the links, he’ll be remembered for what he has accomplished off it. The Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is a hospital funded by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation in Orlando, Florida. It is also central Florida’s only pediatric trauma and emergency center. Added to that is the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, also in Orlando.
For any lover of golf, today will be a solemn one. While we say good-bye to an icon, his legacy will never be forgotten.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18Acj7vzkQE
