Event to help Big Brothers Big Sisters will mark Goalby’s 50th anniversary Masters win
BELLEVILLE — The 1968 Masters Tournament was the 32nd Masters Tournament, held April 11-14 at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Ga. It was during this historic event that professional golfer Robert “Bob” Goalby secured the win of his career as Masters champion.
Born, raised, and living much of his life in Belleville, he attended the University of Illinois where he played on the football team. He turned professional in 1952, won his first tour event in 1958, and he won and contended steadily until 1971.
“You win all the Tucsons, all the Kemps, all the Iron City Opens you can, nobody remembers,” said Goalby, now 89. “You win a Masters, nobody ever forgets.”
A celebration to commemorate the 50th anniversary of this historic Masters Tournament win will take place at St. Clair Country Club on Monday, April 16, at 6 p.m. A portion of the funds raised from the celebration will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois, a one-to-one mentoring program serving youth throughout the Illinois counties of Clinton, Madison, Monroe, and St. Clair.
“Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois has been helping children realize their full potential and build their futures since 1980,” shared Natalie Jablonski, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois. “We are honored that proceeds from this celebration will support the services we provide which are essential in meeting the needs of our community’s youth by matching positive, caring role models to mentor and guide them through the challenges they face in today’s society.”
“St. Clair Country Club and the Belleville community have benefitted from Bob Goalby’s distinguished career and commitment to helping others for decades. Therefore, it was no surprise to us when Bob chose Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois to benefit from this historic event at our club. It is a true pleasure to celebrate his accomplishments and to share the moment with an organization that does so much for young people in our community.” said Tom Sipula, general manager and director of golf at St. Clair Country Club.
The celebration is open to members of St. Clair Country Clubs and their guests (all guests must be sponsored by member of St. Clair Country Club). Reservations are required in advance (with payment) by calling Lori at St. Clair Country Club at (618) 398-3400. To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters, a proud member of United Way, visit their website www.bbbsil.org or call (618) 398-3162.
