Howard Twitty, American golfer

Howard Twitty: A Career Spanning Decades in Professional Golf

Howard Allen Twitty, born on January 15, 1949, is a distinguished American professional golfer renowned for his enduring presence across multiple major tours. His extensive career saw him compete on the PGA Tour throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, before transitioning to the Champions Tour where he played from 1999 until 2007. Twitty's journey in professional golf is marked by consistency, notable victories, and a unique adaptation to overcome physical challenges.

Early Life, Collegiate Achievements, and Professional Debut

A native of Phoenix, Arizona, Howard Twitty honed his golf skills in the desert landscape before attending Arizona State University (ASU) in Tempe. ASU is widely recognized for its elite golf program, which has produced numerous PGA Tour professionals, including Phil Mickelson and Jon Rahm. Twitty graduated from ASU in 1972, laying a solid academic foundation before dedicating himself fully to a professional golf career. He officially turned professional in 1974, embarking on a path that would see him compete at the highest levels of the sport for over three decades.

PGA Tour Victories and Major Championship Performance

During his tenure on the PGA Tour, Twitty secured three impressive tournament victories. These wins underscore his competitive prowess and ability to perform under pressure on golf's biggest stage. His PGA Tour triumphs include:

• 1980 Kemper Open: This marked his breakthrough victory, establishing him as a formidable competitor.
• 1985 Los Angeles Open: A significant win in a highly competitive event, showcasing his continued ability to contend.
• 1993 Shell Houston Open: Demonstrating remarkable longevity, this victory came late in his PGA Tour career, proving his enduring skill.

Beyond his wins, Twitty also achieved a commendable T-5 finish at the 1980 PGA Championship. This result represents his best performance in a major tournament, highlighting his capability to compete with the sport's elite in golf's most prestigious events. Achieving a top-5 finish in a major championship is a significant accomplishment that many professional golfers aspire to but few achieve.

Adapting to Challenges: The Unique Footwear

Twitty's career was not without its hurdles. He faced a notable challenge in 1996 when he missed a portion of the season due to foot surgery. This injury necessitated a unique and distinctive adaptation: Twitty began wearing sandals fitted with golf spikes while playing. This uncommon footwear choice allowed him to continue his professional career, showcasing his determination and ingenuity in overcoming physical limitations. It's a visual characteristic that sets him apart on the course and speaks to his commitment to the game.

Transition to Senior Golf: The Champions Tour

In preparation for his entry into senior professional golf, Twitty competed on the Nationwide Tour (now known as the Korn Ferry Tour) in his late forties. This developmental tour served as a crucial stepping stone, allowing him to maintain competitive form and prepare for the rigors of senior competition. Upon reaching the age of 50 in 1999, he seamlessly transitioned to the Champions Tour, which is designed for golfers aged 50 and over. On the Champions Tour, Twitty continued to demonstrate his competitive spirit, with his best finish being a T-2 at the 2000 Toshiba Senior Classic, affirming his continued ability to contend for titles.

Contributions Beyond Playing: Golf Course Design

Howard Twitty's expertise extends beyond playing the game; he has also made significant contributions to golf course architecture through his consulting work. His experience as a professional player offers invaluable insights into the nuances of course design, particularly regarding playability, strategy, and aesthetics. He has collaborated with other prominent figures in golf and design on well-received projects:

• TPC at River Highlands: Twitty partnered with fellow professional golfer Roger Maltbie on the redesign of this course in Connecticut. TPC at River Highlands is famously the site of the Travelers Championship, formerly known as the Buick Championship, and is renowned for its dramatic closing holes.
• TPC Scottsdale: He also collaborated with renowned golf course architect Tom Weiskopf on the redesign of TPC Scottsdale. This iconic Arizona course hosts the Waste Management Phoenix Open, previously known as the FBR Open, and is famous for its lively stadium-style 16th hole.

These collaborations underscore Twitty's holistic understanding of golf, contributing to the very landscapes where professional tournaments are contested.

Personal Life and Nickname

Howard Twitty currently resides in Paradise Valley, an affluent suburb of Scottsdale, Arizona, a region well-known for its vibrant golf culture and as home to many professional athletes. He is a family man with seven children. Reflecting his broad passion for sports, he lists "all sports" as his special interests. Among his peers and fellow golfers, he is affectionately known by the nickname "Twitty-Bird," a testament to his personality and presence within the professional golf community.

Frequently Asked Questions About Howard Twitty

When was Howard Twitty born?

Howard Allen Twitty was born on January 15, 1949.

How many PGA Tour wins does Howard Twitty have?

Howard Twitty won three tournaments on the PGA Tour: the 1980 Kemper Open, the 1985 Los Angeles Open, and the 1993 Shell Houston Open.

What is Howard Twitty's best finish in a major championship?

His best finish in a major tournament was a T-5 at the 1980 PGA Championship.

Why does Howard Twitty wear sandals with golf spikes?

Howard Twitty wears sandals with golf spikes due to foot surgery he underwent in 1996, which necessitated this unique adaptation for him to continue playing professionally.

What golf courses has Howard Twitty helped design or redesign?

Howard Twitty has consulted on golf course design, collaborating on the redesign of TPC at River Highlands (site of the Travelers Championship) and TPC Scottsdale (site of the Waste Management Phoenix Open).