Breaking News: American track and field star Shakari Richardson reveals major sponsorship deal…Read more
After the tournament ended on Sunday, founder Jack Nicklaus was overcome with emotion and shed tears as he announced that his wife would be the event’s next guest of honor.
The Captains Club has chosen Barbara Nicklaus as guest of honor for its 50th anniversary celebrations. Known as the “First Lady of Golf,” she was a key figure in the golfing world and a driving force behind her husband’s career success.
“Barbara Niccals was deeply involved in everything that happened and the captains thought it was appropriate that Barbara be nominated for the 50th anniversary of the memorial,” Jack said emotionally during the live interview, with tears in his eyes. “I broke down and cried last night, and now I’m still crying.”
” Jack noted, “She was involved in everything that was going on behind the scenes. It was a deeply emotional decision for me.”
10TV’s Dom Tiberi interviewed Barbara after the announcement. She expressed surprise, saying she never expected something like this to happen.
“I was totally stunned and speechless for a while,” Barbara told Dom. “I thought, ‘Unbelievable; this shouldn’t have happened.’ However, it turned out to be one of the greatest honors I could imagine.
In 1974, Jack opened Muirfield Village Golf Club and two years later founded the Memorial Tournament. According to Jack, Barbara played a significant role in his success by providing him with support and advice. “This award means the world to me and I am deeply grateful to the Captains Club for considering me,” said Barbara. “When the Captains Club gathered for its annual gathering and our dear friend Charlie Mechem called to announce it, I was overcome with emotion and truly lost for words.” The Anniversary Convention was so important to our family’s life, and I was happy to walk it with Jack as his vision finally became our shared reality. I am humbled when I think of those who have received this honor since 1976. Words cannot express how honored I am to be included with such an esteemed group of people I admire and respect.
In 2004, they joined forces to create the Nicklaus Children’s Health Foundation, which has since raised more than $200 million to improve pediatric health care.
Jack Nicklaus kisses his wife, Barbara, after winning his second straight Tradition Senior Golf Tournament. (AP Photo/Jeff Robbins)
Barbara, a Columbus native, graduated from North High School in 1957. She continued her education at The Ohio State University, where she pursued a degree in nursing. She met Jack during their first week on campus as freshmen and they married in 1960. They have five children, as well as 24 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Barbara will be honored during a ceremony at Muirfield Village Golf Club the day before the first round of the 2025 Memorial Tournament.
Jack Nicklaus and his wife pause for a moment while driving a golf cart at American Lake Veterans Golf Course in Tacoma, Washington. (Photo AP/Ted S. Warren)
