Charles “Chick” Evans Jr. was an influential figure in the world of golf, serving as a beacon of inspiration for golf enthusiasts worldwide. Born on July 18, 1890, in Indianapolis, Evans etched his name in the history books of golf with his raw talent and an unparalleled passion for the sport.
Chick Evans made his foray into the professional golf scene with a bang. He won the Western Open in 1910, a notable achievement for an amateur player. The Western Open, at that time, was considered an extension of the professional major championships. His triumph against professionals in such an esteemed tournament helped lay the foundational feet of his eminent career.
Evans’ brush with history crept up in 1916, a year which brought him unprecedented success and etched his name in the annals of golf history forever. That year, Evans managed to achieve a career double – he became the first golfer to win the U.S. Open and the U.S. Amateur in the same year. This triumph not only affirmed his golfing prowess but also catapulted him to global fame. It’s worth noting that he successfully managed to merge the amateur and professional golf spheres through his victory, a feat that remains a rarity to this day.
Throughout his career which spanned five decades, Evans showed an impressive consistency that saw him participating in fifty consecutive U.S. Amateurs. With an impressive 55 tournament victories, Evans had more than a comprehensive trophy cabinet. Moreover, his longevity in the sport is testimony to his skill, passion, and love for the game.
One of Evans’ most significant and enduring contributions to the game of golf isn’t about winning tournaments. Instead, it’s about a scholarship he founded. While his victories earned him widespread adulation, it’s the creation of the Evans Scholars Foundation which put him on the map as a figure of societal significance. The foundation offers full university scholarships to deserving caddies, a cause close to Evans, who himself started as a caddie. Venturing beyond regulations and fairways, he transformed the world off-the-green. Since its inception in 1930, the scholarship has funded the college education of over 10,000 caddies.
Evans made a profound impact on golf beyond his command of the club and the unerring precision of his strokes. He broadcasted golf matches on the radio during the 1920s, illustrating his eagerness to popularize the sport and his affinity towards innovation.
Evans’ influence on golf extended even beyond his playing days. After retirement, he remained an astute analyst and commentator of the game, carving another path for himself behind the microphone. His profound insights and deep understanding of the sport saw him become a loved and respected figure in the golf commentary box. In many ways, he became the voice of golf, helping shape and define the sport for radio audiences across the nation.
Chick Evans received multiple accolades and honors in reward for his services to the sport. He was made a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1975, ensuring that the golfer’s name will forever be remembered in association with the sport he so loved and served. He was also awarded the Bob Jones Award in 1960, the highest honor given by the United States Golf Association in recognition of sportsmanship in golf.
Chick Evans may have passed away in 1979, but his legacy continues to live on. Through his stellar career, his philanthropy, and his passion for the sport, Evans has left an indelible mark on the world of golf. He will be remembered not only as a proficient golfer but also as an architect of the sport’s popularity, a dedicated philanthropist, and a lasting inspiration for future generations of golfers.
Unwavering in his commitment and steadfast in his pursuit of excellence, Chick Evans exemplifies the enduring spirit of golf. His story serves as a reminder that golf is more than just about titles and glory. It’s about portraying sportsmanship, inspiring others, and promoting the love for the game above all else.