Jimmy Demaret

Jimmy Demaret

Jimmy Demaret was born on May 24th, 1910

Full Name: James Henry Demaret
Nationality: American
Profession: Golfer
Place of Birth: Houston, Texas, USA
Career Wins: 31 PGA Tour titles
Notable Wins: Masters Tournament
Playing Years: 1935-1957
Style: Classical swing

A three-time Masters Tournament winner and one of the most popular golfers of the 1940s and 1950s, known for his charismatic personality and impressive playing career.

Written by: Thomas Blackwood Thomas Blackwood

Jimmy Demaret: The Wardrobe of Golf

Jimmy Demaret, a trailblazing American professional golfer, left an indelible mark on the sport with his impressive 31 PGA Tour victories between 1935 and 1957. He etched his name in history as the first three-time winner of the Masters, securing titles in 1940, 1947, and 1950.

Early Life and Career

Born on May 24, 1910, in Houston, Texas, Demaret developed his golfing skills in the windy conditions of his native state. This environment shaped his unique playing style, which featured a low fade left-to-right flight on his longer shots, providing excellent distance and control.

A Flamboyant Personality and On-Course Success

Demaret's flair for the dramatic extended beyond his golf swing to his fashion sense. He became known for wearing bright-colored clothing during tournaments, earning the nickname "The Wardrobe." His flashy attire was specially made, and he often entertained fans with his charismatic personality.

On the course, Demaret's skills were highly regarded by his contemporaries. Ben Hogan, a golf legend in his own right, praised Demaret as the best player he had ever seen in windy conditions. This expertise helped Demaret reach the semifinals of the PGA Championship four times and secure a runner-up finish at the 1948 U.S. Open.

Peak Performance and Career Highlights

Later Life and Legacy

Demaret's career declined in the 1950s, but he remained involved in the golf world. He teamed with Sam Snead to win the Canada Cup for the U.S. in Puerto Rico at age 51. Demaret was elected to the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1983 and ranked 20th on Golf Digest's list of the greatest golfers of all time in 2000.

Before his passing on December 28, 1983, Demaret made a lasting impact on golf broadcasting, serving as a commentator for All-Star Golf in the early 1960s. His legacy continues to inspire generations of golf enthusiasts, solidifying his place as one of the sport's most iconic figures.

Timeline
1910
Born in Houston, Texas
Jimmy Demaret was born on May 24, 1910, in Houston, Texas.
1935
Turned professional golfer
Demaret turned professional golfer in 1935, starting his career on the PGA Tour.
1938
Won his first PGA Tour event
Demaret won his first PGA Tour event in 1938, at the Corpus Christi Open.
1950
Won the Masters Tournament
Demaret won the Masters Tournament in 1950, one of his three major championships.
1983
Died in Houston, Texas
Jimmy Demaret died on December 30, 1983, in Houston, Texas, leaving behind a legacy as a successful professional golfer.
Jimmy Demaret

Jimmy Demaret Quiz

What is Jimmy Demaret known for besides his golfing skills?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What was Jimmy Demarets most notable achievement in golf?
Jimmy Demaret was an American golfer who won three Masters Tournaments, in 1940, 1942, and 1949, cementing his status as one of the eras top players.
What was Jimmy Demarets playing style like?
Demaret was known for his smooth, consistent swing and his exceptional short game, which enabled him to excel on a variety of courses.
How did Jimmy Demaret contribute to golf course design?
Demaret collaborated on several golf course designs, including the famed Medina Golf & Country Club in Minnesota, showcasing his expertise in course architecture.
What was Jimmy Demarets role in the PGA of America?
Demaret served as the PGA of Americas president from 1955 to 1957, promoting the growth of golf and supporting the development of junior golf programs.
What legacy did Jimmy Demaret leave behind in the golf world?
Demarets accomplishments on the course, combined with his contributions to golf course design and governance, have solidified his place in the pantheon of golf legends.

Related People:

Ben Hogan

Born in 1912

Legendary golfer and sportscaster who dominated the sport with 68 professional wins, including nine major championships, and inspired generations with his remarkable comeback from a near-fatal car accident.

Sam Snead

Born in 1912

A legendary golfer with a record 82 PGA Tour wins, known for his smooth swing and charismatic personality on the course and in the broadcast booth.

Byron Nelson

Born in 1912

A legendary golfer and broadcaster, known for winning 52 PGA tournaments, including 11 in a row, and providing iconic commentary for CBS Sports.

Arnold Palmer

96 Years Old

A legendary golfer and entrepreneur who dominated the sport in the 1950s and 1960s, and later built a business empire around his iconic brand.

Gary Player

90 Years Old

A legendary golfer and charismatic sportscaster, known for winning numerous championships, including nine major titles, and entertaining audiences with his commentary and wit.

Jack Nicklaus

86 Years Old

A legendary golfer and broadcaster, renowned for his record 18 major championships and iconic swing, still widely revered in the golf world today.

Tom Watson

59 Years Old

A British Labour Party politician who served as Deputy Leader and led the party's anti-Brexit efforts, known for his strong stance against leaving the EU.

Lee Trevino

86 Years Old

A charismatic golfer and broadcaster, known for his witty commentary and six major championships, including two U.S. Open titles.