Title: Local Legends: Famous Golfers from Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a prominent hotspot for golf enthusiasts globally. Famed for its picturesque fairways, pristine coastline, and championship golf courses, this coastal city is home to countless golfers – from green amateurs to legendary pros. This article seeks to shine a light on some of the highly influential golf figures originating from Myrtle Beach – the home of golf.
First on the list is none other than the legendary golf course architect, Robert White. A native of St. Andrews, Scotland, White made Myrtle Beach his home and planted the roots of golf deep into the city’s soil. He played an instrumental role in American golf history being a founding member of the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) and its first president (1916-1920). Equally notable, White designed the very first golf course at Myrtle Beach, the Ocean Forest Country Club (now Pine Lakes Country Club), launched in 1927, a monumental contribution to our city.
Taking the women’s golf scene by storm is Myrtle Beach’s own, Kristy McPherson. Raised in Conway, nearby to Myrtle Beach, McPherson has had a prolific career to date. Despite being diagnosed with Still’s Disease at age 11, she overcame physical limitations and developed a passion for golf. An NCAA All-American at the University of South Carolina, she turned professional in 2003. Five years later, she qualified for the U.S. Women’s Open. Today, McPherson’s enduring grit and determination make her a treasured local icon.
Next, we have Johnson Wagner, who exemplifies the spirit of Myrtle Beach golf. Born in Amarillo, Texas, but raised in Myrtle Beach, Wagner honed his skills on the local courses throughout his early years. Entering the professional scene in 2002, he claimed his first PGA Tour victory in 2008 at the Shell Houston Open and has gone on to win two more PGA Tour events since. Known for his affable personality (and signature mustache!) Wagner is a shining example of the golf talent bred in Myrtle Beach.
Let’s not forget about Dustin Johnson. Though not born in Myrtle Beach, Johnson’s golf career is deeply rooted in this city. Attending the Coastal Carolina University, he won the Monroe Invitational and the Northeast Amateur in 2007 and crossed the threshold into the PGA Tour in 2008. Now ranked as one of the world’s best golfers, Johnson made Myrtle Beach proud by winning the U.S. Open in 2016 and the Masters in 2020.
Perhaps one of the most endearing stories belongs to the local boy, Tommy “Two Gloves” Gainey. Born and raised in Darlington, a modest town near Myrtle Beach, Gainey didn’t follow the traditional country club route into professional golf. Starting as an assembly line worker, his big break came in the reality television show, “The Big Break.” He’s since established a successful PGA Tour career with a unique double-gloved swing that grants him a familiar nickname. His unconventional journey to professional golf serves as an inspiration for many local golfers.
In conclusion, Myrtle Beach doesn’t just offer stunning golf courses – it truly is a cradle for nurturing exceptional golf talent. It’s heartening to recall the famous names that called Myrtle Beach their home, and it’s always exciting to keep an eye out for the next crop of golfers who will rise to fame from this city of champions.