| |
 |
|
A
True Pioneer |
|
By
Drea Braxmeier
Manager of Media Relations
Born in 1903 in New Haven, Conn., Glenna Collett Vare did not
get her start in the game of golf until she was 14. Her first
win came at the age of 19 at the U.S. Women’s Amateur.
 |
Glenna
Collett Vare |
Known
as the female Bobby Jones, Vare was the greatest female golfer
of her day. She won with amazing skill, but is most remembered
for the grace and style with which she won. Crowned the “Queen
of American Golf,” Vare won multiple times in an era when
the LPGA was not around and when there were very few chances
for women to make a name for themselves in the game.
Throughout her career, Vare won a record six U.S. Women’s
Amateur Championships, two Canadian Women’s Amateurs and
a French Women’s Amateur. Her 4-2-1 record during the
Curtis Cup, an event she helped originate, was derived over
her four years as player and player-captain. She also won the
North and South six times and the Eastern Amateur seven times.
In 1924, Vare won 59 out of 60 matches, losing only on the 19th
hole of the semifinal of the Women’s Amateur. During this
time, Vare’s only peer was Joyce Wethered of Great Britain.
Even Wethered, though, admitted she was no match for Vare.
“If she is finding her true form,” stated Wethered,
“then there is little hope, except for a miracle, of surviving.”
One of the longest hitters during her time, Vare was known for
driving the ball over 300 yards off the tee. Enid Wilson, who
played against Vare during the Curtis Cup, was amazed at the
length she got during that time.
“Her vigorous game set up an entirely fresh standard for
her countrywomen, and the young up-and-coming golfers in the
1930s were inspired by her example,” said Wilson.
While most of Vare’s victories came during match play,
the LPGA annually awards the Vare Trophy to the player with
the lowest stroke average.
“To make oneself a successful match-player, there are
certain qualities to be sought after, certain ideas must be
kept in mind and certain phases of one’s attitude towards
the game that come in for special notice,” remarked Vare.
“The three I have taken are these: love of combat, serenity
of mind and fearlessness.” |
|
