Shirley Englehorn

Pro golfer, won 1970 LPGA Championship, class of 1958 [15]

What is Shirley Englehorn known for?

Shirley Ruth Englehorn, born on December 12, 1940, in Caldwell, Idaho, was a notable professional golfer who carved out an impressive career for herself. She spent her early years honing her skills in her hometown before gaining recognition as an amateur. She won numerous amateur and open events, including the Idaho Open, McCall Open, Pacific Northwest Amateur, and the Oregon Open.

After graduating from Caldwell High School in 1958, Shirley turned professional at the young age of 18, joining the LPGA Tour. Throughout her professional career, she triumphed at 11 tournaments, most notably, the 1970 LPGA Championship. Her success that year saw her lead the tour in terms of victories. Besides her wins, she also took third places at the Western Open and U.S. Women's Open.

In spite of suffering from injuries due to an equestrian accident and another in an automobile mishap, her resilience never wavered. She made successful comebacks and even received the Ben Hogan Award in 1968 in recognition of her courage. Towards the latter part of her career, Shirley transitioned into golf instruction, earning the LPGA Teacher of the Year Award in 1978.

Shirley, affectionately known as "Dimples," left an indelible mark in the realm of professional golf. She passed away on October 2, 2022, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, leaving behind a rich legacy. Her career, characterized by perseverance and a love for the game, continues to inspire many aspiring golfers.

For more about her life and career, you can visit her LPGA profile.

Caldwell, the place where Shirley Englehorn was born and raised, is located in Idaho, and you can learn more about it here.