We get word on this Friday night that one of the legends of golf, both on the course and in the broadcast booth, Ken Venturi has died at the age of 82.
Just less than two weeks ago, Venturi was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame, but was unable to attend due to a lengthy illness.
Venturi was known to generations of golf fans as CBS’ lead analyst on its PGA Tour coverage from 1968 until 2002, a total of 35 years. He worked with a Who’s Who of Sports Broadcasting in the the 18th tower, Jack Whitaker, Vin Scully, Pat Summerall and Jim Nantz. Venturi holds the record for his tenure as the lead analyst.
For older golf fans, Venturi is remembered for winning the 1964 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, MD, overcoming heat stroke in extreme high heat and humidity, playing 36 holes on the final Saturday.
Venturi retired from the PGA Tour in 1967 due to what became eventually known as carpal tunnel syndrome and was hired the next year by CBS.
What you may not know is that Venturi overcame a severe stutter. His clear and concise commentary for CBS gave him a large legion of fans. And he’s also known for his role as Ken Venturi in Tin Cup starring Kevin Costner.
We have a statement from CBS Sports on Venturi’s passing.
STATEMENTS FROM CBS SPORTS ON THE PASSING OF LEGENDARY BROADCASTER AND GOLF HALL OF FAMER KEN VENTURI
Ken Venturi provided lead analysis and commentary for CBS Sports’ coverage of golf for 35 years from 1968 when he, along with Jack Whitaker, co-hosted “CBS Golf Championship” and “CBS Golf Classic,” until 2002 as the lead golf analyst for the CBS Television Network. He was the longest-running lead analyst on television for any sport.
One of golf’s elite players, Venturi won the 1964 U.S. Open Championship, and was recently inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in a ceremony on May 6.
“For the second time in a month, the CBS Sports family has lost one of its legends with the passing of Ken Venturi. Ken was not only one of golf’s greatest champions, but also the signature voice of golf for almost two generations of fans and viewers. His stature, expertise and personality working in the 18th tower alongside Pat Summerall, Jim Nantz and the rest of the CBS golf team will forever be synonymous with the greatest golf events on CBS.” – Sean McManus, Chairman, CBS Sports
“He was one of the finest gentlemen the world will ever know and one of the greatest friends you could ever have. He was a deeply principled man with a dynamic presence. He just exuded class. Through his competitive days and unequalled broadcasting career, Kenny became a human bridge connecting everyone from Sarazen, Nelson and Hogan to the greatest players of today’s generation. Kenny faced many adversities in his life and always found a way to win. When I hear Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” I will always believe that Ol’ Blue Eyes was singing that song for his close pal, Kenny Venturi. It makes me think of him every time. On his farewell broadcast in 2002 I told him, ‘You will be, always by my side.’ Five years later I wrote a book about my Dad and father figures in my life. I named the book after that very moment.
I’m so happy he lived to know he was going to be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. I will cherish my 17 years working with him. But more than that, I will treasure the rich, personal, deep friendship that we shared for nearly 30 years.” – CBS Sports’ Jim Nantz
Venturi’s impact on golf is felt to this day.
