Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., to be inducted into National Black Golf Hall of Fame: Local Knowledge: Golf Digest

Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., to be inducted into National Black Golf Hall of Fame

Friday, January 21, 2011 Comments

Twenty-five years after his famous father was among the original inductees into the National Black Golf Hall of Fame, Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., will be part of the 2011 induction class March 5 in Tampa, Fla.

Barrow, the CEO of The First Tee will be honored alongside golf industry entrepreneur and CEO of The Grass Ceiling Rose Harper; and Dr. Calvin Sinnette, author of the book, "Forbidden Fairways."

"I am humbled and feel it a privilege to be inducted in the National Black Golf Hall of Fame," Barrow said in a statement. "The fact that it comes on the 25th anniversary of my father's recognition makes it even more special. To be associated with the many Black pioneers of golf, individuals who have fought so hard to assure the game was ever present in our community, is an honor. This is a recognition of which I am deeply proud."

Following his storied heavyweight career, Barrow's father, Joe Louis was the first African-American to play in a PGA Tour event when he accepted a sponsor's exemption into the 1952 San Diego Open. Louis' involvement in golf played a pivotal role in the PGA of America waiving its Caucasian-only clause.

-- Golf Digest Digital Staff