In the spirit in which the Classics of Golf (www.classicsofgolf.com) presented new Forewords and Afterwords to introduce people to the greatest golf books, Classics of Golf has launched a new initiative to expand its stewardship of the golf's great books to video and online media channels.   In this first segment, Robert S. Macdonald, Classics of Golf Founding Publisher, discusses Walter Hagen and "The Story of Walter Hagen: By the Haig, Himself" first published in 1956.

Mr. Macdonald focuses on Walter Hagen's place alongside the greatest players ever. He explains that Herbert Warren Wind, Classics of Golf co-founder and most celebrated sportswriter, thought of Walter Hagen as the "most under-appreciated golfer in history."

Best Golf Books: Robert S. Macdonald on "The Walter Hagen Story"

 

One of the game's most dashing and feared players, he is s ummed up in his most-remembered saying: " I never wanted to be a millionaire - I just wanted to live like one". 

This is Walter Hagen's own story of the two decades when he ruled the  golfing world as king. Hagen not only won a major tournament every year for twenty years-a record never even approached by any other golfer-but his personality dominated the game during that period.  

A fascinating read that also shows how he opened up the golf world to professionals-who previously weren't even allowed in the clubhouse.

Click here for The Walter Hagen Story product page. 

Walter Hagen 1928

 

The British Golf Museum (website) posted video of old film clips of Walter Hagen on the course in 1928.  There is much to be said for his simple approach to swinging the club.

More information on Hagen's career is available at wikipedia and about.com.