Fifty years on from becoming the first black golfer to tee up at the Masters, the sport must pause to recognise a pioneer
For Carl Jackson, the path was one well trodden. Caddie shed to 1st tee; he had done it hundreds of times over 14 years as a bag man at the Masters. Jackson’s connection to Augusta National stretched even beyond his major debut of 1961. He was a caddie at the venue from the age of 14, breaching employment law even as existed in 1950s Georgia but savvy enough to make a mark. Jackson was quickly accepted.
This time, Jackson had no cause to give advice over a choice of club. He had no competitor anxiety to calm. Thursday 10 April 1975. Fore please, now driving: Lee Elder. Jackson made sure he formed part of the gallery. A Masters colour split – caddies black, players white – was about to end.
