 St Andrews University has a history honouring sports personalities |
Charlie Sifford, the American golfer who defied racism to become an inspiration for a generation of young players, is to gain an honorary degree. Mr Sifford will be made a Doctor of Laws at St Andrews University on Thursday afternoon.
He was the first African-American to challenge the US Professional Golf Association's Caucasian-only clause by joining the professional tour in 1960.
The 84-year-old endured death threats and racial slurs during his career.
Dr Brian Lang, principal and vice-chancellor of the St Andrews University, said Mr Sifford would be attending a graduation ceremony at Younger Hall beginning at 1430 BST.
He said: "Charlie Sifford is a pioneer of the civil rights era whose career exemplifies courage, determination and the will to succeed in the face of substantial prejudice and adversity.
"He changed the landscape of sport and his story is one which should challenge and inspire us all.
"It is absolutely fitting that this man, his unique character, his dignity and his gift to golf should be honoured by St Andrews in St Andrews.
"We are delighted that he has accepted our offer of an honorary degree and will be with us at graduation."
Charlie Sifford is described by Tiger Woods as his "honorary grandfather".
He won the Hartford Open in 1967 and two years later took the Los Angeles Open. He played 422 events on the PGA tour and made 399 cuts.
Although he was the top black player on tour in the 1960s, he was never invited to play in The Masters.
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It is absolutely fitting that this man, his unique character, his dignity and his gift to golf should be honoured by St Andrews in St Andrews
