Class of 1984

Ben Crenshaw

Professional Player

Biography

Ben Crenshaw was so popular with the folks in the gallery that they actually get mad at him when he does not perform as well as they would like.

Crenshaw has been a winner since claiming the Texas State Junior Boys Championship in 1969 at Brackenridge Park. At the University of Texas, he won two individual NCAA titles and shared another with teammate (and fellow Texas Golf Hall of Fame member) Tom Kite, as the Longhorns managed two team titles.

In 1973 Crenshaw won his Tour Card in the qualifying tournament by 12 shots over runner-up Gil Morgan. Crenshaw then won his debut tournament as a PGA Tour eligible player at the Texas Open. Crenshaw, whose deft putting touch has helped him win 19 tournaments, including the 1984 and 1995 Masters, after attending the funeral of his friend and mentor, Harvey Penick.

Additional playing accomplishments include:

Four Ryder Cup teams (1981, 1983, 1987, 1995) and captained the historic 1999 team
World Cup Team member in 1972 and 1988
In 1991 Bob Jones Award winner, the highest honor bestowed by the United States Golf Association in recognition of distinguished sportsmanship in golf

Ben’s interests remain related to golf. He is a partner in a golf course architecture firm based in Austin .His entry into the golf architecture business brought closer a life-long goal of creating quality golf courses in the classical style. He also served on the Museum Committee of the United States Golf Association.

Birthplace: Austin, Texas

Born: January 11, 1952

Career Highlights

19 PGA TOUR victories, 23 wins worldwide
1984, 1995 Masters Champion
1981, 1983, 1987, 1995 Ryder Cup Team Member
1999 Ryder Cup Captain
1992 USGA Bob Jones Award
Member World Golf Hall of Fame

Joining the Tour

After making it through several stages of Q school to earn his PGA Tour card, Ben won his very first PGA Tour event as a professional. After an outstanding amateur career, including two NCAA individual championships at the University of Texas, Crenshaw turned professional in 1973. Just a week later, he captured victory at the San Antonio Texas Open at Woodlake Country Club. This rare feat showcased not only his extraordinary talent but also his ability to seamlessly transition from amateur to professional success, marking the start of a Hall of Fame career.

History Buff

Ben Crenshaw has a profound love for the history of golf, often referring to himself as a student of the game’s rich traditions and legendary figures. Known for his encyclopedic knowledge of golf’s past, Crenshaw has long admired the great champions, classic courses, and timeless values that shaped the sport. He often draws inspiration from historical architects like Alister MacKenzie and Donald Ross, and his deep respect for golf’s heritage is reflected not only in his playing career but also in his design work with Bill Coore. Crenshaw believes that understanding the game’s history provides a sense of continuity and reverence that enriches both the player’s experience and the spirit of the game.

Leaving a Legacy

Ben Crenshaw’s passion for golf course architecture stems from his deep appreciation for the game’s traditions and its connection to the natural landscape. A student of classic course design, Crenshaw believes that great courses should harmonize with the land rather than dominate it. His partnership with Bill Coore, formed in 1986, reflects this philosophy. Together, as Coore & Crenshaw, they have become renowned for creating minimalist, timeless designs that emphasize strategy, playability, and respect for the terrain. Their close collaboration is built on mutual trust, shared vision, and a love for crafting courses that celebrate the spirit of golf’s golden age.

Gentle Ben & Friends

Texas Hall of Famer Bill Rogers, who was one of Ben's assistant captains from the 1999 Ryder Cup team and a 1981 Ryder Cup teammate, shares thoughts about their friendship.

Ben Crenshaw earned the nickname “Gentle Ben” because of his calm demeanor, gracious personality, and smooth, effortless style on the golf course. From his early days on the PGA Tour, Crenshaw was known not only for his exceptional putting touch and elegant swing but also for his sportsmanship and kind-hearted nature, which stood out in the competitive environment of professional golf. The nickname also reflects the quiet confidence and thoughtful approach he brought to the game—qualities that made him both a fan favorite and a respected figure among his peers.

Deep Dive Interview

Ben talks about his early days learning golf in Texas with Harvey Penick, stories of his PGA playing days, and his interests in building golf courses and preserving golf history.

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