Few golfers have a story as inspiring as Lee Trevino’s. Known as “The Merry Mex,” Trevino left a lasting mark on the game. He combined raw talent with an unforgettable personality. His journey from humble beginnings to golf legend is truly extraordinary.

Humble Beginnings

Lee Trevino was born in 1939 in Dallas, Texas. He grew up in a modest household, helping support his family from a young age.

Trevino’s golf journey began as a caddie at the Dallas Athletic Club. He practiced whenever he had the chance. Without formal lessons, he taught himself to play. Often, he would use a makeshift range on his family’s land. These early experiences shaped his unique swing and his approach to the game.

The Rise to Stardom

Trevino’s rise in professional golf was unexpected. After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, he began playing in smaller tournaments. Over time, he built a solid reputation.

In 1967, he competed in the U.S. Open and tied for fifth place as a qualifier. This performance put him on the radar. A year later, he shocked the golf world by winning the 1968 U.S. Open. He defeated Jack Nicklaus by four strokes. This victory catapulted him into the spotlight.

A Career of Greatness

Trevino’s career was full of achievements. He won six major championships and 29 PGA Tour events. His major wins include:

• Two U.S. Opens (1968, 1971)
• Two Open Championships (1971, 1972)
• Two PGA Championships (1974, 1984)

One of his most famous rivalries was with Jack Nicklaus. In 1971, Trevino defeated Nicklaus twice in high-stakes events. He beat him in an 18-hole playoff at the U.S. Open. Later that year, he won the Open Championship, besting Nicklaus once again.t.

A Personality That Shone Bright

Lee Trevino was more than a golfer. He was an entertainer. Known for his constant chatter and quick wit, he brought energy to the game.

Fans loved him for his humor and his approachable style. Whether he was joking with the crowd or teasing his opponents, Trevino made golf feel fun and inclusive. His charm brought new fans to the sport.

Off the course, his story resonated with everyday people. He rose from poverty to become a champion. For many, he embodied the American dream.

A Lasting Legacy

Trevino’s impact on golf goes beyond his trophies. As a Mexican-American, he broke barriers in a sport that lacked diversity. He inspired future generations to pursue their dreams.

Even today, Trevino remains involved in golf. He shares his wisdom with young players. His influence is felt in the sport’s culture and history.

Lee Trevino’s legacy is a story of resilience, humor, and skill. He proved that greatness isn’t about where you start, but how you persevere. His impact on golf will be remembered for generations.

Raise a glass—or a club—to The Merry Mex, one of the greatest legends in golf history.

As the snow melts and the days grow longer, golfers everywhere feel the familiar excitement: the new golf season is just around the corner! Preparing for the upcoming season isn’t just about waiting for the courses to reopen—it’s about getting your game and gear ready to hit the fairways running. Here’s how you can make the most of the pre-season and ensure you’re ready for a stellar year of golf.

1. Tune Up Your Gear

Take stock of your equipment. Are your grips worn? Is your driver feeling a little outdated? Now is the time to clean your clubs, assess their condition, and consider upgrades. Fresh grips or a new putter might just give you that extra edge this year.

2. Check Your Golf Wardrobe

Golf fashion evolves, and so do your needs. Make sure your wardrobe includes comfortable, moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you cool and dry on the course. Bright spring colors and updated styles can give you confidence as you step up to the first tee.

3. Sharpen Your Short Game Indoors

Even if you’re stuck inside, you can still work on your putting and chipping. A putting mat or chipping net can be a game-changer for pre-season practice. Spending just 10 minutes a day indoors can make a big difference when you finally hit the greens.

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4. Focus on Fitness

Golf requires flexibility, core strength, and endurance. Use the winter months to focus on your physical fitness. Stretch regularly, strengthen your core, and improve your balance. A fitter you will lead to a better swing and fewer aches after a round.

5. Plan Your Golf Goals

What do you want to achieve this season? Whether it’s breaking 90 for the first time, playing a new course, or finally sinking that elusive eagle putt, set realistic goals and outline how you’ll work toward them.

6. Schedule Early Rounds

As soon as your local course starts taking tee times, be one of the first to book. Early rounds can help shake off the winter rust and get you back into the rhythm of the game.

7. Reconnect with Your Golf Group

The start of the season is the perfect time to rally your friends, plan outings, and even organize a casual league. Golf is as much about camaraderie as it is about the game itself.

Preparing for the golf season is part of the fun of being a golfer. From polishing your gear to practicing your swing, these small steps can set you up for success and make the transition into spring smoother and more exciting. So, get ready—this season could be your best yet!

Augusta National Golf Club, nestled in the heart of Georgia, is one of the most famous and storied venues in golf. Its lush fairways, blooming azaleas, and towering pines have made it synonymous with elegance and tradition. But behind the iconic beauty of this golf sanctuary lies a complex and, at times, contentious history.

The Beginnings of Augusta National

In 1931, famed amateur golfer Bobby Jones, alongside investment banker Clifford Roberts, founded Augusta National on the grounds of a former indigo plantation in Augusta, Georgia. The course was designed by Alister MacKenzie, a visionary architect whose intent was to create a course that tested both physical skill and strategic thinking. By 1934, Augusta National was ready to host its first tournament, which would later be known as The Masters—an event that would grow to become one of the four major championships in golf.

The Masters and Its Traditions

From the beginning, The Masters was a tournament like no other. Its traditions—such as the Green Jacket awarded to winners and the honorary tee shots by legendary golfers—were designed to set it apart. However, the exclusivity of Augusta National extended beyond its traditions and into its membership policies, shaping a more complicated legacy.

A History of Segregation

For decades, Augusta National adhered to strict segregationist policies, reflecting the prevailing social norms of the American South. African American golfers were barred from playing in The Masters until Lee Elder broke the color barrier in 1975, becoming the first Black golfer to compete in the tournament. While Elder’s participation was a watershed moment, Augusta’s issues with inclusion persisted.

The club’s membership remained exclusively white until 1990, when businessman Ron Townsend became its first Black member. This milestone came after years of external pressure and public scrutiny, highlighting the tension between tradition and progress.

“Men Only” and the Fight for Gender Inclusion

Similarly, Augusta National maintained a “men only” policy for its members well into the 21st century. This policy became a flashpoint for criticism during the early 2000s when activist Martha Burk publicly challenged the club’s exclusion of women. It wasn’t until 2012, under mounting societal and corporate pressure, that Augusta National admitted its first two female members—former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and business executive Darla Moore.

A Legacy in Transition

Today, Augusta National continues to evolve, balancing its historical traditions with a more inclusive approach to the future. While its past is marked by exclusivity, its efforts to embrace diversity are gradually reshaping its identity. The Masters remains a symbol of excellence in golf, drawing players and fans from around the world, while the club’s history serves as a reminder of the work required to make the game of golf truly inclusive.

Augusta National is more than just a golf course; it is a cultural institution that mirrors the complexities of the society around it. As The Masters continues to captivate audiences, the story of Augusta National reflects both the beauty and the challenges inherent in preserving tradition while striving for progress.