From Publishers Weekly
The "dance floor" is golfers' jargon for the putting green; this book offers reminiscences from master performers on the links. The only disappointing aspect of the book, by a former editor of Golf magazine, is that some of the most interesting chapters occur at the outset: recollections by "Wild Bill" Mehlhorn, now in his late 80s, and Gene Sarazen, who set a record as the youngest winner of the U.S. Open in 1922, when he captured the title at age 20. But there are other fine contributions as well, from the likes of Sam Snead, Byron Nelson and Willie Turnesa, who talk about the game of the pre-WW II era. In another segment, Patty Berg remembers that the woman's "pro tour" in 1940 offered total prize money of about 500, and "Chink" Stewart candidly describes the difficulties black players encountered in seeking acceptance into the pro world. Photos not seen by PW. January 31
Copyright 1985 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1985 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Coauthor of instruction books with Ken Venturi and George Low, Barkow here records memories of golf in the early 1900s. The "dance floor" in the title is the golfer's goalthe putting green. Players, including Sam Snead, Patty Berg, and Gene Sarazen, are joined by teachers, club makers, and others in relating their experiencesgood and bad. The majority came from humble startsoften as caddiesand had to struggle and learn along the way. Most striking are the stories of black players Bill Spiller and "Chink" Stewart. Their battles against discrimination and prejudice contrast with the smooth path at country clubs experienced by Betsy Rawls. An excellent choice for complete golf collections; optional elsewhere. Morey Berger, Monmouth Cty. Lib., Freehold, N.J.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.
