Man Who Played First Masters Dies at 103

Samuel Henry Ball, who played in the first-ever Masters tournament in 1934, passed away earlier this week at the ripe old age of 103.

Ball was 23 when he played in the first Augusta National Invitation Tournament in 1934. He finished tied for 38th, 25 shots behind the winner, Horton Smith.

Ball, born in Wales, and was a golf pro for decades. He was a member of the PGA for 83 years, which the organization says is an all-time record. He was inducted into the PGA Hall of Fame in 2011.

“His amazing career spans the legends of the game, from Harry Vardon through Tiger Woods,” said PGA president Ted Bishop.  “His longevity, according to those who knew him best, was founded upon a love of people. Each day, like each step he took on the course, was spent with purpose.”