Mark Calcavecchia Bio
Mark John Calcavecchia (born June 12, 1960) is an American professional golfer and a former PGA Tour member. During his professional career, he won 13 PGA Tour events, including the 1989 Open Championship. He plays on the Champions Tour as well as a limited PGA Tour schedule that includes The Open Championship.
Early Life and Background
Mark Calcavecchia was born in Laurel, Nebraska. In 1973, his family relocated to West Palm Beach, Florida. He attended North Shore High School in West Palm Beach, where he excelled in golf, winning the Florida high school golf championship in 1977. During his teenage years, he competed against Jack Nicklaus’ son, Jackie, which led to a lifelong friendship with the legendary golfer.
Path to Golf
Calcavecchia accepted an athletic scholarship to the University of Florida in Gainesville, where he played for the Florida Gators men’s golf teams from 1978 to 1980. He earned first-team All-Southeastern Conference honors in 1979, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport. After turning professional in 1981, he joined the PGA Tour in 1982 but lost his card after the 1985 season. His determination and skill led him to significant achievements in the years that followed.
Mark Calcavecchia Career
Early Career (1981-1985)
Calcavecchia turned professional in 1981 and joined the PGA Tour in 1982. His most notable achievement during this period was winning The Open Championship in 1989, where he triumphed over Wayne Grady and Greg Norman in a four-hole playoff at Royal Troon in Scotland. This victory marked a significant milestone in his career and solidified his status as a top golfer.
Breakthrough (1989-2001)
The year 1989 was pivotal for Calcavecchia, as he not only won The Open Championship but also had a multiple-win season on the PGA Tour, securing two additional titles that year. His performance at the Masters Tournament in 1988, where he finished second by just one stroke, further highlighted his competitive edge. In 2001, he set a Tour scoring record by making 32 birdies in 72 holes at the Phoenix Open, finishing at 28 under par for the tournament. This achievement showcased his exceptional skill and consistency on the course.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Mark Calcavecchia has won a total of 29 professional events, including 13 on the PGA Tour. He has spent 109 weeks in the top 10 of the Official World Golf Rankings from 1988 to 1991, reflecting his sustained excellence in the sport. His participation in the Ryder Cup in 1987, 1989, 1991, and 2002 further underscores his contributions to American golf.
Mark Calcavecchia Award Nominations
Mark Calcavecchia has received several nominations throughout his career, recognizing his achievements and contributions to the sport of golf.
Mark Calcavecchia Awards Won
Among his accolades, Calcavecchia won the Champions Tour Byron Nelson Award in 2011, highlighting his success on the Champions Tour.
Mark Calcavecchia Family
Mark Calcavecchia is married to Brenda Nardecchia, with whom he tied the knot on May 5, 2005, in Lake Como, Italy. He has two children, Eric and Britney, from a previous marriage.
Personal Life
Calcavecchia resides in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. He has homes in Jupiter, Florida, and Phoenix, Arizona, reflecting his successful career in golf. His personal life is marked by his dedication to his family and his passion for the sport.