Hale Irwin (1945- )

Born in Joplin, Missouri, USA Irwin was one of America's top golfers during the 1970s and a member of several Ryder Cup teams.

The phrase "when the going gets tough, the tough get going" best describes Irwin's talent as a golfer. Soon after turning professional in 1968, Irwin earned the respect of his peers by winning tournaments at some of America's most challenging courses.

Although he is a 3 times US Masters winner, one of the most consistent finishers in PGA history and a 4 times Ryder Cup team member, fate has denied him of several prestigous victories. The most memorable of which was coming to within 2 inches of putting the ball which cost him the Open in 1983.