We like Ike and Golf, Too!
According to a story from the PGA, Dwight D. Eisenhower ranks as the fifth most popular President their fans would like to play a round of golf with:
5. President Dwight Eisenhower. If it were up to me, this is the president I'd most want to play a round of golf with… provided he were the host. Eisenhower never shied away from his love of golf and the criticism he took for playing so much while in office. He also became close friends with Augusta National Golf Club co-founder Clifford Roberts. So much so, that Eisenhower became an Augusta National member in 1948. On the Augusta National grounds, there are several images of Eisenhower and - the most notable reminder of the former Commander in Chief - the Eisenhower Tree. This from Masters.com:
"Located at hole No. 17, the Eisenhower Tree is approximately 210 yards from the Masters tee and left-center of the fairway. The loblolly pine is approximately 65 feet high and about 100 to 125 years old. The former President of the U.S. and Club member hit into the tree so often he campaigned to have it removed. At a Club's governors meeting in 1956, Eisenhower proposed cutting the tree down. Clifford Roberts promptly ruled him out of order and adjourned the meeting. The pine has been linked to Eisenhower since then."
If you love golf and Ike, Abilene offers great ways to enjoy them!
1. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home
It's said that Ike and Arnold Palmer did more for the game of golf than anyone else, but there's more to Ike's life and legacy than just golf.
Visit the all-new exhibits at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum and experience Ike and Mamie’s story in their own words.
Tip: Make sure to check out The Eisenhower Tree in the Library!
2. Abilene Golf and Fitness
Now under new ownership, Abilene Golf and Fitness is a Veteran-owned, 9-hole golf course with a 300-yard driving range. You'll find plenty of trees and terrain changes, making for a challenging course.
Stay tuned for more exciting building and course updates in 2023!