Byron
Nelson, one of golf’s greatest players,
but more importantly its greatest gentleman,
died in September 2006 at age 94, leaving an
extraordinary legacy of leadership and charitable
giving. Nelson’s legacy of humanitarianism
continues, however, through the work of Salesmanship
Club Youth and Family Centers, Inc., the charity
recipient of his namesake, the EDS Byron Nelson
Championship.
Nelson will always be known for his seemingly
untouchable records, 11 straight PGA TOUR wins
in 1945 and 18 total in that magical season.
Yet within his Salesmanship Club family, Mr.
Nelson was much more than a successful athlete.
He will be remembered fondly as a man of great
faith, a tremendous humanitarian and an inspiration
to everyone from the youngest student to the
most seasoned golf professional.
“The work of Byron Nelson continues continues
today, thanks to the EDS Byron Nelson Championship,”
said Kent Skipper, PhD, executive director,
Salesmanship Club Youth and Family Centers,
Inc. “Our services for children and families
strive to reflect his lifelong commitment to
caring and excellence.”
The EDS Byron Nelson Championship, the first
PGA TOUR event named for a professional golfer,
has raised more money for charity than any other
stop on the PGA TOUR, largely due to Mr. Nelson’s
involvement. The 2006 Championship donated more
than $6.3 million to Salesmanship Club Youth
and Family Centers. More than $94 million has
been raised for the organization since the tournament’s
inception.
“Byron and Peggy Nelson worked year-round
to make the PGA TOUR event a success. Funds
raised at the EDS Byron Nelson Championship
allow children and families who otherwise couldn’t
afford needed mental health and education services
to receive them,” said Lawrence M. Wesson,
president, Salesmanship Club of Dallas. "Byron
Nelson was an inspiring role model for all of
us.”
This is the fifth time in EDS Byron Nelson
Championship history that the annual contribution
has exceeded the $6 million mark. For more information
on the EDS Byron Nelson Championship, visit
www.byronnelson.pgatour.com.
