Kim Swan Shares Memories Of Historic Victory
Kim Swan reflected on his historic 1978 Bermuda Open victory, marking 48 years since the triumph that launched his international golfing career.
A spokesperson said, “48 years ago, on Sunday, June 18, 1978, Kim Swan’s life changed forever – a blessing beyond measure, the culmination of nurturing by greats and prayers by many. On this day, Kim Swan became the 1978 Bermuda Open Champion, an accomplishment recognized globally by the World Golf Council, USGA, PGA European Tour and, by extension, many prestigious golf organizations around the world.
“On this day, the coaching of his elders – Herman ‘Tucci’ Bascome, Leonard Jones, and Edward ‘Buzz’ Deshields – who were denied proper access to tournament golf because of their race, caused by the lingering impact of the ‘Caucasian Only Rule’ from 1931-1963. On this day, Kim Swan was handed his passport to the world of golf.
Rick Richardson interviewing amateur golfer 19year old Kim Swan after winning the 1978 Bermuda Open Championship
Swan makes history in Azalea Amateur April, 1978
“Few in Bermuda would have known the extent Kim Swan’s preparation for the 1978 Bermuda Open Championship – even though in 1977 he was third at Mid Ocean Club when Frankie Rabain won his second title. In January 1978, Kim Swan and future golf great Ken Green would finish 5th in a stellar field of top amateur golfers behind winners Vance Heafner and Dick Horne – a field that also included the team of former US Amateur Champion Fred Ridley and Jack Veghte.
“Certainly Swan’s top indicator came when he finished in the top 20 at the 1978 Azalea Amateur behind his roommate Ken Green, who won his first major amateur title, virtually booking his signing to the University of Florida. However, Kim Swan shot an under-par round of 70 on the final round at the historic Country Club of Charleston which proved to be the lowest round of the day against many of America’s top amateurs – some headed to the Masters the next week including Jay Seigel and Vance Heafner.
“Ironically, Kim Swan was making history by breaking racial barriers unknowingly – Azalea officials didn’t realize they had extended an invitation to a Black golfer. On that final day, Kim Swan played with the largest gallery of local Blacks and had the honour of old man Frank Ford driving in his golf cart to watch him play. Later that evening, the denied Black golfers and caddies of Charleston invited Kim and Kenny to celebrate with them.
“Kim Swan credits the inspiration of Port Royal Walter King for challenging him to dream beyond Bermuda.
Later in 1978, Kim Swan would join transfer from Palm Beach Junior College to the legendary Troy [State] University Golf Team [then a Division 2 Powerhouse who were recruiting Ken Green] and go on to be their 1978/79 MVP with team and individual collegiate titles to his name.
Mr. Swan said, “On this day, I tearfully reflect on how blessed I was to have found golf or to have golf find me.
“Golf has shaped my life and I am forever grateful for the blessing that keeps on giving positive energy in my life. I owe so much to so many fantastic people in my life, so I’ll keep on plying my trade and keep giving back as the journey continues. Golf is the greatest game of all.”
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