Born: 1928 (Spartanburg, South Carolina)
Biography:
Elizabeth Earle Betsy Rawls, born on May 4, 1928, was an American professional golfer who had a remarkable career on the LPGA Tour. Known for her exceptional skill and mental toughness, Rawls dominated the golfing world, winning eight major championships and 55 LPGA Tour career events. Her contributions to the sport and her impact on women’s golf have cemented her legacy as one of the greatest golfers of her time.
Born in Spartanburg, South Carolina, to Robert Miller and Mary Earle Rawls, Betsy later moved to Arlington, Texas, in 1940. She grew up with a passion for sports and began playing golf at the age of 17. Rawls quickly displayed a natural talent for the game and honed her skills through dedication and hard work.
Rawls’ amateur career was nothing short of impressive. She won the Texas Amateur in 1949 and 1950, showcasing her talent and competitive spirit. In addition, she triumphed in the 1949 Trans-National and the 1950 Broadmoor Invitational tournaments. Her exceptional performance as an amateur culminated with a second-place finish at the U.S. Women’s Open in 1950. This accomplishment confirmed her potential and solidified her decision to pursue a professional career in golf.
In 1951, Rawls turned professional and joined the LPGA Tour. She wasted no time making her mark, winning her first tournament, the Sacramento Women’s Invitational Open, the same year. This victory marked the beginning of an illustrious career that would see her become one of the most successful golfers in history.
Throughout her career, Rawls amassed an impressive record of 55 LPGA Tour wins, including eight major championships. Her triumphs included notable victories at the Houston Weathervane, Bakersfield Open, Seattle Weathervane, and Eastern Open, among others. In 1959, she secured the LPGA Vare Trophy for lowest scoring average, further highlighting her remarkable consistency and skill.
Rawls’ dominance in the golfing world extended beyond her individual success. In 1961 and 1962, she served as the LPGA’s president, displaying her leadership qualities and dedication to the sport. Her influence on the LPGA Tour was further recognized when she was inducted into the LPGA Tour Hall of Fame in 1967, as one of the six inaugural inductees. The following year, Rawls received the highest honor in golf, the Bob Jones Award, presented by the United States Golf Association in recognition of her distinguished sportsmanship in the game.
Following her retirement from tournament play in 1975, Rawls continued to make significant contributions to the sport as a tournament director for the LPGA Tour. From 1987 until 2004, she assumed the role of tournament director for the McDonald’s LPGA Championship at the DuPont Country Club. Her dedication and expertise ensured the success of the event, further cementing her place in the golfing world.
Rawls’ impact on women’s golf cannot be understated. She inspired countless female athletes to pursue their dreams and push the boundaries of their abilities. Her remarkable achievements shattered gender stereotypes and paved the way for future generations of women golfers.
Today, Betsy Rawls’ legacy lives on through her induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame and the LPGA Tour Hall of Fame, as well as the lasting impact she made on the sport. Her extraordinary career and unwavering determination continue to inspire and empower individuals, both on and off the golf course.
Awards:
– LPGA Vare Trophy for lowest scoring average (1959)
– LPGA’s Leading Money Winner (1952, 1959)
– Inductee into the LPGA Tour Hall of Fame (1967)
– Bob Jones Award (1996)