The Bobby Jones Story

The Bobby Jones Story. . , In the “Golden Age of American Sport” no athlete captured the public imagination like Atlanta's own Robert Tyre “Bobby” Jones Jr. Born in nearby Grant Park in 1902, Jones popularized golf on an international stage. His sportsmanship called attention to the game's traditions, his success and personal character on and off the course continue to inspire. His 14-year playing career culminated in 1930 when he became the only golfer to achieve a Grand Slam by winning golf's four major tournaments in the same year. Two months later, he retired from competitive golf to devote time to his family, career, and his native city of Atlanta., Bobby Jones became golf's beloved ambassador and helped establish Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament. He played in the first 12 tournaments and served as the non-playing host until 1968. Jones transcended the sport and became an American hero at a time when the nation needed one., [Inset box] , Jones' parents, Robert and Clara, were avid golfers, and they moved their family to East Lake in 1908. As a child, Jones developed his skills at East Lake Country Club and won his first major tournament at age 14., Jones met Mary Rice Malone in 1919 while he was a student at Georgia Tech. The couple married in 1924 and had three children: Clara, Robert Tyre Ill, and Mary Ellen. The Jones family remains active in sharing the Bobby Jones story and legacy in Atlanta, including here at Oakland Cemetery., Caption: Bobby Jones with a four-leaf clover watch fob, honoring his birth on St. Patrick's Day. Courtesy Atlanta History Center