Army of Mom

So this is how liberty dies ... with thunderous applause.

9.26.2006

RIP: Golf legend Byron Nelson

Golf legend Byron Nelson died today. Nelson won 11 straight tournament victories in 1945, which is one of sports' most enduring records.

I met Mr. Nelson and interviewed him in 2000 at the Four Seasons in Las Colinas, where the Byron Nelson Classic is held each May. He was one of the most personable celebrities I've ever interviewed. Gracious, courteous, a true Southern gentleman. He held the door open for me as we left the country club and went out onto the green for a photo to accompany the story. He was kind enough to have a photo taken with me, too. My story on Mr. Nelson was the cover story for a special golf pub the business journal put out in time for the Colonial and Byron Nelson Classic. He signed the cover shot for me. It is framed and hanging on my wall.

My brush with greatness. He was so humble and told me stories about how he would work as a caddy when he was a boy, earning a nickel for a day's work. When I met him at the resort, he was bringing in a box of sweaters that he sold in the pro shop there. He had some signature sweaters and sweater vests that he brought in himself. I thought that was surprising. He lived in a Fort Worth suburb and was well liked for his community support. The world will miss him.

Byron Nelson 1912-2006

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