A pioneering female golfer who won multiple tournaments, including the 1984 LPGA Rookie of the Year award, and paved the way for future generations of women in golf.
Laurie Rinker is a renowned American professional golfer who left an indelible mark on the LPGA Tour, capturing two victories and earning over $1.2 million in her storied career. Born on September 28, 1962, in Stuart, Florida, Rinker's passion for golf was evident from a young age, paving the way for her successful amateur and professional careers.
Rinker's amateur career was nothing short of impressive. She attended the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, where she played for coach Mimi Ryans Florida Gators women's golf team from 1980 to 1982. During her time at the university, she was recognized as an All-American in 1980 and 1982. Rinker's talent and dedication earned her a spot on the LPGA Tour, which she qualified for in the summer between her junior and senior year of college.
Rinker's professional career was marked by several milestones. Her best years came in the mid-1980s, during which she won two LPGA Tour titles – the 1984 Boston Five Classic and the 1986 LPGA Corning Classic. She also achieved impressive finishes in LPGA majors, including a seventh-place finish in the 1984 Nabisco Dinah Shore and a tie for third in the 1987 LPGA Championship.
Her most lucrative year was 1987, when she earned $158,916 and secured nine top-10 finishes. To date, Rinker has won over $1.2 million as a professional golfer.
Rinker comes from a golfing family. Her two brothers, Larry and Lee, have played on the PGA Tour. She competed under her married name, Laurie Rinker-Graham, from 1992 to 2003. Rinker is a proud mother of two sons, Brent and Timothy.
Rinker's accomplishments didn't go unnoticed. She won the 2015 LPGA Teaching and Club Professionals Championship, qualifying her for the inaugural U.S. Senior Women's Open in 2018 through 2020 as an eligible winner of the past five editions of the tournament.
Laurie Rinker's contributions to the world of golf are undeniable. Her trailblazing career paved the way for future generations of female golfers. Her dedication, perseverance, and passion for the sport have left an indelible mark on the LPGA Tour.
Rinker's legacy continues to inspire and motivate aspiring golfers, solidifying her place as one of the most accomplished golfers in LPGA Tour history.
69 Years Old
A trailblazing golfer with 48 LPGA victories, including three majors, and a charismatic sportscaster who paved the way for women in golf.
69 Years Old
A pioneering female golfer who won 35 LPGA titles, including six majors, and was a key figure in the growth of women's golf in the 1980s and 1990s.
75 Years Old
A pioneering female golfer who won 31 LPGA tournaments, including six majors, and was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
87 Years Old
A pioneering female golfer who won 43 LPGA tournaments, including two majors, and was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
78 Years Old
A pioneering female golfer who won numerous tournaments, including the 1968 LPGA Championship, and later became a respected sportscaster.
