University Place, WA. Mention the name Jack Nicklaus and the golf memories can overload the mental circuits. Winner of 18 major championships–runner-up no less than 19 times. Without question, the game’s most stellar player. But that image has been cultivated, nurtured and strengthened considerably by a meaningful contribution from someone who has preferred to remain in the shadows. Who is it?
Barbara Nicklaus–Jack’s wife of nearly 55 years.
No less than the Golden Bear has stated many, many times the critical role his wife played and continues to play. Jack has stated his success to fully prepare for major competitions comes from what Barbara provided him and their family.
Tuesday at Chambers Bay–the host for this year’s U.S. Men’s Open–Barbara Nicklaus will be duly recognized with the United States Golf Association’s highest acknowledgement–the 2015 Bob Jones Award.
M. James Ward
Author
Ward is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America and Met Golf Writers Association. He has covered over 100 major championships and 12 Ryder Cup Matches. His golf acumen extends to architecture/travel, equipment, apparel, and general interest stories as well as in-depth interviews with the leading participants and influencers in the sport.
