Edward Wanambwa Reflects on the Passing of Charlie Sifford

Dr. Charlie Sifford,

Today the game of golf and the world lost a beacon of hope, inspiration and courage in the passing of Dr. Charlie L. Sifford.  Rising from humble beginnings in Charlotte, NC, he endured unspeakable prejudice and abuse to swing open the doors of professional golf for players of all ethnicities and backgrounds to follow.  Often with angst, anger and resentment Dr. Sifford would express the fact that he refused to quit even in the face of overwhelming prejudice and hate.  “I toughed it out.  I’m proud of it.  All those people were against me, and I’m looking down on them now” said Sifford.

I had the honor of interviewing Dr. Charlie L. Sifford on numerous occasions and I was always amazed by the manner in which he spoke of the struggles and tremendous obstacles he faced as he fought the golf establishment to gain a place to play the game he loved.  In 2004, I was granted an exclusive thirty minute interview with Dr. Sifford and we spoke about a myriad of things concerning life, golf, and the obstacles he faced and overcame.  “I just wanted to play and I wasn’t a quitter.  Today a poor little caddie from NC is going into the Hall of Fame.  That’s what’s it’s all about” said Dr. Sifford.

In May of 2004, I caddied for Lee Elder at Liberty Mutual Legends of golf and during that week came the announcement that Charlie L. Sifford was going to be inducted in the World Golf Hall of Fame.  During a practice session on the driving range I had the pleasure of meeting golf legend Gary Player and when asked about Charlie Sifford he said “Can you imagine being a world class athlete and not being allowed to compete?”  Not having a chance to play and having to endure the hate and discrimination he faced?” said Player.  “Both Charlie and his late wife Rose are extraordinary people and they are both heroes in my opinion.”

Today we lost a lot more than just Dr. Charlie L. Sifford.  We lost a connection to our past and we lost an enduring symbol of strength, courage and perseverance.  Dr. Charlie L. Sifford was golf’s Nelson Mandela.  He suffered and endured the slings and arrows of hate and prejudice so that we could play.  Without his tremendous sacrifice the chapters of Lee Elder, Calvin Peete, Tiger Woods, and other black golfers would have never been written.

Rest In Peace Dr. Charlie Sifford.  Today you get to look down on all of those people who looked down on you from a place or peace, honor, and glory. You will be missed.

Thank You.

Cover Photo Credit