Born: 1918 (Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA)
Died: 2006 (Not Available)
Biography:
Patricia Jane Berg (February 13, 1918 – September 10, 2006) was an American professional golfer and a trailblazer in women’s golf. She was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and from an early age, expressed an interest in football. At one point, she even played quarterback on a local team that included future Oklahoma Sooners head football coach Bud Wilkinson. However, it was golf that ultimately captured Berg’s heart and propelled her to become one of the most successful female golfers in history.
Berg started playing golf at the age of 13 in 1931, at the suggestion of her parents. By 1934, she had already begun her amateur career and had already won the Minneapolis City Championship. Her talent and dedication to the sport were evident at a young age. In 1935, she reached the final of the U.S. Women’s Amateur, losing to the legendary Glenna Collett-Vare, who captured her final Amateur victory in that match. This breakthrough propelled Berg into the national spotlight and set the stage for her future success.
The following year, in 1936, Berg claimed a state amateur title, further solidifying her position as one of the top amateur golfers in the country. She attended the University of Minnesota, where she was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Despite her collegiate commitments, Berg continued to shine in the golfing world, winning the prestigious Titleholders tournament in 1937.
In 1938, Berg had a remarkable season, winning both the U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship at Westmoreland and the Women’s Western Amateur Championship. She also triumphed in the Titleholders Championship, clinching a spot on the winning Curtis Cup team. Her stellar performance that year earned her the Associated Press Woman Athlete of the Year accolade, an honor she received three times throughout her career.
In 1939, despite undergoing appendix surgery that prevented her from competing in the U.S. Women’s Amateur, Berg defied the odds and won her third consecutive Titleholders Championship. Her dominance as an amateur golfer was unparalleled, and after winning 29 amateur titles, she decided to turn professional in 1940.
Berg’s professional career faced a setback in December 1941 when she was involved in a serious automobile accident. The crash shattered her knee, leading to concerns that her golfing days might be over. However, Berg’s determination and resilience were evident as she not only recovered from her injuries but also joined the United States Marine Corps as a second lieutenant in 1942. She served in the Marine Reserves until 1945, showcasing her patriotism and commitment to her country.
In 1943, Berg made a triumphant return to the game after breaking adhesions in her leg during a locker room fall. The redemption story continued as she won the Women’s Western Open upon her comeback. Berg’s talent and popularity soared, leading to a pivotal moment in women’s golf history.
In 1946, Berg emerged victorious in the inaugural U.S. Women’s Open, solidifying her place as one of the sport’s elite players. Two years later, she played a pivotal role in establishing the forerunner of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) – the Women’s Professional Golf Association (WPGA). In 1948, she won three tournaments on the WPGA circuit, showcasing her immense skill and influence on the sport.
When the LPGA was officially founded in 1950, Berg was among its 13 founding members and held the distinction of being the association’s first president. Her leadership and dedication were instrumental in shaping the future of women’s professional golf. Berg went on to win a remarkable 57 events on the LPGA and WPGA circuit, cementing her status as one of the most successful female golfers in history.
Berg’s legacy extends far beyond her accomplishments on the golf course. She inspired countless women to pursue their dreams in sports and served as a role model for generations of athletes. Her impact on society and her contribution to advancing women’s golf cannot be overstated. Berg’s determination, perseverance, and love for the game continue to inspire golfers around the world.
Awards:
– Associated Press Woman Athlete of the Year (1938, 1943, and 1949)
– World Golf Hall of Fame inductee