Larry Mize Bio
Lawrence Hogan Mize (born September 23, 1958) is an American professional golfer who played on the PGA Tour and currently plays on the Champions Tour. He is well known for one career-defining shot – a chip from off the green at the 11th hole at Augusta to win the playoff for the 1987 Masters Tournament, which is his only major title to date. He is also the only winner of that tournament to come from Augusta.
Early Life and Background
Lawrence Hogan Mize was born in Augusta, Georgia. He worked during his teenage years at the Masters Tournament as a scoreboard operator on the 3rd hole. Mize attended Georgia Tech, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for golf that would shape his future career. His early exposure to the prestigious Masters Tournament provided him with unique insights into the game and the competitive atmosphere of professional golf.
Path to Golf
Mize turned professional in 1980, marking the beginning of his career on the PGA Tour. He finished in the top 125 on the money list for 20 consecutive seasons from 1982 to 2001. His first notable victory came in 1983 at the Danny Thomas Memphis Classic, which helped establish his presence on the tour. Mize’s early career was marked by significant opportunities and challenges, including a six-hole playoff loss to Greg Norman at the 1986 Kemper Open, which showcased his competitive spirit and determination.
Larry Mize Career
Early Career (1980-1986)
In 1980, Mize began his professional career and quickly made a name for himself on the PGA Tour. His first notable win came in 1983 at the Danny Thomas Memphis Classic. He continued to perform consistently, securing a place among the top players on the tour. Mize’s early achievements included a tie for fourth at the U.S. Open in 1987, which briefly placed him in the top-10 of the Official World Golf Ranking.
Breakthrough (1987)
Mize’s career reached its pinnacle at the 1987 Masters Tournament, where he showcased his remarkable skill and composure under pressure. After four rounds, he was tied with Seve Ballesteros and Greg Norman, leading to a playoff. On the second playoff hole, Mize executed a memorable chip shot from around 140 feet, securing a birdie that ultimately led to his victory. This win not only marked his only major title but also solidified his status as a prominent figure in the world of golf.
Notable Works and Milestones
Mize’s signature work is undoubtedly his victory at the 1987 Masters Tournament, where he defeated both Norman and Ballesteros in a sudden-death playoff. This achievement remains a defining moment in his career, earning him a place in golf history. He has also won a total of ten professional tournaments, including four on the PGA Tour and one on the Champions Tour.
Larry Mize Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Larry Mize has received recognition for his contributions to the sport of golf, particularly for his remarkable performance at the Masters Tournament.
Larry Mize Awards Won
Mize’s most notable achievement is his victory at the 1987 Masters Tournament, which remains his only major title. His win at this prestigious event is celebrated as a significant milestone in his career.
Larry Mize Family
Mize currently resides in Columbus, Georgia. He has a wife and three sons, although further details about his family life are not publicly available.
Personal Life
In addition to his golfing career, Mize enjoys hobbies such as fishing, basketball, and playing the piano. He has been involved in charitable activities, including sponsoring a successful charity golf tournament to benefit cystic fibrosis. As of April 2022, he has played in 39 consecutive Masters Tournaments, demonstrating his enduring connection to the event that defined his career.