Ann Gregory
(July 25, 1912 – February 5, 1990)
A pioneer and a trailblazer
Ann Gregory was a true pioneer and trailblazer, not only in the realm of golf but also in her commitment to breaking barriers in her community. Her historic legacy extended beyond the golf course, as she made history by becoming the first Black member to integrate the Gary Public Library Board. Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to serving her community, actively participating on numerous community boards, including those associated with churches, the United Way, and hospitals. Gregory’s unwavering dedication to fostering positive change and equity left an indelible mark on both the world of golf and the broader community she served.
The first Black woman in a USGA championship. She did it at Meridian Hills in Indy. She was inducted into the United Golf Association Hall of Fame in 1966, the African American Golfers Hall of Fame in 2006, the National African American Golfers Hall of Fame in 2011, and the National Black Golf Hall of Fame in 2012.
Ann Gregory, born on July 25, 1912, and passing away on February 5, 1990, was a trailblazing African-American amateur golfer whose remarkable journey made her a legend in the world of golf. Black newspapers hailed her as “The Queen of Negro Women’s Golf,” and she is often recognized as the best African-American female golfer of the 20th century, as noted in Arthur Ashe’s book, “Hard Road to Glory.”
Discovering Golf Amid World War II
Ann Gregory’s golfing journey began during World War II while her husband was serving in the Navy. Her introduction to the sport marked the start of an extraordinary career that would challenge racial barriers and inspire many.
Triumph Over Adversity
In 1948, Ann Gregory achieved a significant milestone by winning a tournament in Kankakee, Illinois, where she triumphed over former United Golf Association champions Lucy Mitchell, Cleo Ball, and Geneva Wilson. Her victory signaled the arrival of a remarkable talent in the golfing world.
A Year of Triumphs
The year 1950 would prove to be a defining one for Ann Gregory. She clinched victory in the Sixth City Open in Cleveland, the Midwest Amateur, and the United Golf Association’s national tournament. Additionally, she tied the women’s course record at a tournament in Flint, Michigan, leaving an indelible mark on the golfing landscape.
Breaking Boundaries in Golf
On September 17, 1956, Ann Gregory embarked on a historic journey by participating in the U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship. Her presence marked a groundbreaking moment as she became the first African-American woman to compete in a national championship conducted by the United States Golf Association.
Challenging Discrimination
Ann Gregory faced racial discrimination during her golfing career. In 1959, after the U.S. Women’s Amateur concluded, she was denied entry into the player’s banquet at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda due to her African-American heritage. Despite such challenges, she persevered.
A Trailblazer for Equal Access
In the early 1960s, Ann Gregory challenged discriminatory practices by playing at the South Gleason Park Golf Course in Gary, Indiana, where African-Americans were initially banned. Her bold stance led to the end of segregation, paving the way for others to follow.
Resilience in the Face of Misunderstanding
In 1963, Ann Gregory faced a case of mistaken identity when she was wrongly assumed to be a maid by another contestant, Polly Riley, at the Women’s Amateur in Williamstown, Massachusetts. Her response exemplified grace and determination in the face of adversity.
Legacy of Achievement
Ann Gregory continued to break barriers, finishing as the runner-up at the USGA Senior Women’s Amateur in 1971. Her remarkable journey inspired generations of aspiring golfers.
A Champion’s Legacy
At the age of 76, Ann Gregory displayed her enduring skill by winning the gold medal in the U.S. National Senior Olympics in 1989, triumphing over her competitors by an astonishing 44 strokes. Her dedication to the sport remained unwavering.
Honors and Recognitions
Ann Gregory’s contributions to golf and her community did not go unnoticed. She won nearly 300 tournaments during her illustrious career and was appointed as the first African-American to the Gary Public Library Board in 1954.
A Lasting Tribute
A granite marker at the sixth hole of the South Gleason Park Golf Course in Gary, Indiana, stands in memory of Ann Gregory. Her impact on the sport and society continues to be celebrated through various hall of fame inductions.
Inducted into Golf Hall of Fame
Ann Gregory’s legacy was cemented when she was inducted into the United Golf Association Hall of Fame in 1966, the African American Golfers Hall of Fame in 2006, the National African American Golfers Hall of Fame in 2011, and the National Black Golf Hall of Fame in 2012.
Continuing Her Legacy
In 2000, the Urban Chamber of Commerce of Las Vegas established the Ann Gregory Memorial Scholarship Golf Tournament, a testament to her enduring influence that provided educational opportunities for future generations.
Ann Gregory’s life and golfing achievements serve as an enduring testament to the power of determination, resilience, and breaking down racial barriers. Her legacy continues to inspire and pave the way for aspiring African-American golfers and athletes.
Ann Gregory received several awards and honors throughout her remarkable golfing career. Here is a list of her notable awards and recognitions:
- United Golf Association Hall of Fame (1966): Ann Gregory’s induction into the United Golf Association Hall of Fame recognized her significant contributions to the sport of golf and her pioneering role as an African-American female golfer.
- African American Golfers Hall of Fame (2006): Gregory’s inclusion in the African American Golfers Hall of Fame celebrated her enduring impact on the game of golf and her influence as a trailblazer for African-American athletes.
- National African American Golfers Hall of Fame (2011): Ann Gregory’s induction into the National African American Golfers Hall of Fame acknowledged her legacy as an inspirational figure in the world of golf and her role in breaking racial barriers.
- National Black Golf Hall of Fame (2012): Gregory’s enshrinement in the National Black Golf Hall of Fame honored her as a distinguished figure in the history of African-American golf and her contributions to the sport.
Ann Gregory’s awards and recognitions reflect her outstanding achievements and the enduring impact she had on the world of golf as a trailblazer for African-American women in the sport.