Six legendary golf figures were welcomed into the PGA of America Hall of Fame during a gala dinner on Nov. 5 at the Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa during the 109th PGA Annual Meeting.
The 2025 class included PGA of America Golf Professionals Ronny Glanton, Jim McLean and JD Turner; PGA Past President Jim Richerson; LPGA Tour legend Nancy Lopez; and PGA of America Honorary Member and trick-shot artist Dennis Walters. CBS Sports’ Amanda Balionis emceed the event, and PGA of America President Don Rea Jr. also addressed attendees.
“The PGA of America Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is always a special night, and the 2025 Class truly represents the very best of our Association and the game we love,” said Rea. “It’s a tremendous honor to celebrate their profound achieve- ments in growing and elevating golf and the industry. Their collective legacy is inspirational.”
Richerson’s comments during the induction ceremony summarized the feelings of gratitude expressed by the night’s honorees.
“It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you don’t care who gets the credit,” Richerson explained. “I think anybody that’s had any type of success in our business has a lot of people who have supported them along the way.
“From a business standpoint, I’ve had great partners, but it starts and ends with my family. I grew up in a very supportive family, my parents supported six kids that all went into different industries.
“And my wife, Kristi, for those who don’t know her, is better than me in every way. She’s the most genuine person I know. You can’t have any success unless you have people supporting you, and I’ve been very fortunate.”
Added Walters, “I want to thank the PGA of America for this incredible honor. And I congratulate my fellow honorees.”
The PGA of America Hall of Fame originated in 1940 at the suggestion of famed sportswriter Grantland Rice, and is the highest honor the PGA of America can bestow upon its members and ambassadors of the game. —Don Jozwiak
