Charlie Epps, The Journey Man: From Argentina to Augusta: A Golf Life Well Played

In the spring of 1986, the phone rang in my office at Houston Country Club. I picked up the receiver and heard a friendly voice, “Hey, Charlie! It’s George Bush.”“Well, hello, Mr. Vice President,” I responded respectfully. It was always a treat when my friend called.“Listen, Charlie, I’ll be in Houston in a few weeks, and I’m hoping you can get me on the course for 18 holes,” said the 43rd Vice President (and future 41st President) of the United States.“Of course, Mr. Vice President,” I said.During his more than 50 years in the game, Charlie has dedicated his life to helping golfers improve. Whether it’s for the Second in Command of the Free World, his prized student Ángel Cabrera, who won the 2009 Masters, or simply your next-door neighbor, Charlie loves to give golf instruction.Inducted into the Texas Golf Hall of Fame in 2012, Charlie’s career playing and teaching the game brought him up close and personal with the likes of Ben Hogan, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, Roberto de Vicenzo, Jim Nantz, Fred Couples, Blaine McCallister, Sean Connery, Bob Hope, and Lucille Ball.Charlie is also one of the most decorated professionals in the history of the Southern Texas PGA of America. His STPGA accolades include Professional of the Year (1983, 1998), Player of the Year (1982, 1983, 1988, 1989), Teacher of the Year (1985, 2010), Horton Smith Award (1982, 1984, 1987), and Dick Forrester Quarter Century Award (2011).As a player, Charlie more than held his own. He played in two U.S. Opens (1976, 1978), and two PGA Championships (1986, 1990). Charlie finished in sixth place at the 1985 National Club Professional Championship, good enough to earn a spot on the U.S. Team for next year’s annual PGA Cup Matches. For good measure, Charlie recorded the winning half-point for the U.S. Team at the 1986 PGA Cup Matches.Charlie was the runner-up at the 1962 Argentina National Junior Amateur and went on to play professionally on the PGA Tour Canada and PGA Caribbean Tour.****“Charlie taught me so much about golf and storytelling. He was one of the first to believe in me.” – Jim Nantz, CBS Sports“Charlie has given so much to others through this game, but what stands out most is his loyalty, his humility, and the joy he brings to everyone around him. Charlie’s story is one of perseverance and heart, and I’m proud to call him a friend.” – Jack Nicklaus, 18-time Major Champion“I would not have won the Masters without the help of my friend, Charlie.” – Angel Cabrera, 2009 Masters and 2007 U.S. Open Champion"Charlie Epps is a great golf teacher and coach, a fantastic player, and a passionate man. He continues to spend his life inspiring others to chase their dreams!" – Dr. Bob Rotella, world-renowned golf psychologist and best-selling author, Golf is Not a Game of Perfect Read more