TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – There’s plenty of world-class golf to be played in the Toledo area this week. In addition to the Solheim Cup, the PING Junior Solheim Cup is also held here.
There are many famous golfers in town this week at Sylvania Country Club and The Inverness Club. Renee Powell is certainly one of them. It has made an impact all over the world and its story began right here in Ohio.
Golf has been a part of Renee’s life for more than 70 years.
“That is everything I know. My life was normal for me. But when I think about it, it wasn’t all that normal. “
Renee was the second African American to appear on the LPGA Tour.
“My father gave me golf clubs when I was three years old. I didn’t start competing until I was 12. It wasn’t until I was 10 years old that I got serious and I’ve competed in competitions all my life. “
Renee’s father Bill also paved the way in golf.
“Daddy built a golf course after his return from World War II because golf wasn’t a very open sport for people of color. He was of the opinion that people should be there, regardless of whether they are male or female, old or young, skin color or religion. “
This golf course is located in Canton, Ohio and is called the Clearview Golf Club.
It was the first golf course in the United States to be designed, built, and owned by an African American.
“It’s one of the few courses on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s a special place. It’s not just about black history or golf history, but about American history. “
Renee is this week captain of Team USA for the Junior Solheim Cup at Sylvania Country Club.
“What an honor and a privilege it is to represent your country.”
Just another chapter in the incredible life story of Renee Powell.
“I want my life to be something that influences and inspires people. I want to make a positive impression. “
Renee is the Head Golf Pro and her brother is the superintendent of the club her father built.
Renee tells me that her father started golf when he was nine and played for 84 years.
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