Legends of Austin, Texas Golf

Austin, Texas has a rich golf history that spans over a century. The city has produced some of the most successful and influential golfers in the world, including Harvey Penick, Ben Crenshaw, and Tom Kite.

Harvey Penick is widely regarded as one of the greatest golf instructors of all time. He began his career as a caddy at Austin Country Club in the 1920s and went on to become the head coach of the University of Texas golf team. Penick was known for his simple and effective teaching methods, which emphasized the importance of a solid swing and mental toughness. His most famous student was two-time Masters champion Ben Crenshaw, who he coached from a young age. Crenshaw credits Penick with helping him develop his mental game and become one of the best putters in golf history.

Ben Crenshaw is one of the most successful golfers to come out of Austin. He won 19 PGA Tour events during his career, including two Masters championships in 1984 and 1995. Crenshaw was known for his elegant swing and his ability to read greens better than anyone else on tour. He was also a fierce competitor, with a never-give-up attitude that earned him the nickname "Gentle Ben". After retiring from professional golf, Crenshaw continued to be involved in the sport as a commentator and golf course designer.

Tom Kite is another legendary golfer from Austin. He won 21 PGA Tour events during his career, including the 1992 U.S. Open. Kite was known for his precision and accuracy on the course, as well as his work ethic and dedication to the sport. He was also a highly successful Ryder Cup player, competing on seven teams and serving as captain in 1997. Kite is widely regarded as one of the most consistent and dependable golfers of all time, with a career that spanned over four decades.

In addition to these three great golfers, Austin has also been home to many successful golf tournaments, including the Dell Technologies Match Play, which has been held in the city since 2016. The tournament attracts many of the top players in the world and has become a highlight of the golf season.

Overall, Austin, Texas has a proud and storied golf history, with many legendary players and tournaments to its name. The influence of Harvey Penick, Ben Crenshaw, and Tom Kite can still be felt in the city today, as golf continues to be a beloved sport among its residents and visitors.