Chip says, “Believe in yourself. With positivity, anything is possible!”
It all started at the youthful age of 10 years old. Chip’s mother took him to a junior golf clinic. Little did she know the decades-long impact that day would make. After a successful junior career, Chip enrolled at the University of Georgia, where he became one of the most decorated golfers in UGA history. As a three-time first-team All-American, five-time tournament winner, and with more top 10 finishes than any other player in the school’s history, Chip Beck decided it was time to test his skills with the best players in the world, on the PGA Tour.
PGA Tour Highlights
Chip has won four PGA Tour victories and has had 20 runner-up finishes. He won the Vardon Trophy and spent 40 weeks in the top 10 of the World Golf Rankings.
Additionally, he got his nickname by being the second player to ever shoot ’59’ in a PGA Tour tournament.
The Story Behind That Magic Number
Las Vegas Invitational hosts the Hilton family said anybody who could shoot a 59 would receive $1 million. Despite never having seen the course before, Chip had five pars and 13 birdies (a PGA Tour record for birdies in one round), including a three footer on the 18th hole to shoot a 59.
Half of the million dollars he won from the 59 ended up funding the Chip Beck Scholarship, which has become a lasting legacy.
“The 59 is the most positive experience of my playing career, because it has helped so many caddies/students with the Chip Beck Scholarships. One with the PGA Tour, and one with the PGA of America. I’m grateful to both organizations as they continue donating $50,000 a year for two scholars through the Evans Scholar Foundation—the largest privately funded scholarship program in America.”—Chip Beck
Other Pro Achievements
In addition to his PGA Tour accomplishments, Chip Beck is also well known as a three-time Ryder Cup member, especially as a very crucial player in the 1993 Ryder Cup, which was the last time the United States has won on European soil. His all-time Ryder Cup record is 6-2-1, with a point percentage of .72.
Chip is one of two golfers to ever have a hole in one on a par four, which he achieved at the Omaha Classic on the 314-yard 9th hole. Although Chip has never won a major, he came close when he finished runner up in three Majors (two US Open, Masters) and one Players Championship.
Chip Beck Today
Since retiring from the PGA Tour, Chip Beck has dedicated his time to teaching and sharing his wonderful experiences with others. Chip also continues to play on the Champions Tour, where his game and positive personality entertain and inspire people while raising money for charity.
To many around the world Chip Beck is known simply as “Mr. 59.” But ask him, and he will tell you he is just another guy who loves God, his family, and the game of golf.