As anticipation builds for the 2025 Masters Tournament, the spotlight turns once again to Augusta, Georgia—a cradle of golfing history. Among its storied figures is African American golf pioneer Jim Dent, a native son whose impact on the sport extends beyond his own accomplishments to those of his sons, who are carrying forward his legacy. A 12-time winner on the Champions Tour and a four-time PGA Tour victor, Dent’s career is a testament to perseverance and skill, cementing his status as one of golf’s most accomplished players.
Images courtesy of the Dent Family
The Making of a Golf Pioneer
Jim Dent’s journey began in the deeply segregated South of the 1950s. Orphaned at a young age, he was raised by his aunt, a housekeeper in one of Augusta's grand mansions. Even as a child, Dent felt an undeniable pull toward golf, but the harsh realities of racial segregation presented formidable barriers. The PGA Tour and most golf clubs were strictly for white men, seemingly extinguishing any hope of a professional golfing career.
It was difficult to envision a future in golf when Black players were denied access to courses. Yet, in Augusta’s Sand Hill community, Dent found a path forward. Since the first Masters Tournament in 1934, Augusta’s Black caddies—often the secret weapons of champions—possessed unparalleled local course knowledge. With colorful nicknames like “Burnt Biscuits,” “Stabber,” “Cigarette,” and “Barracuda,” they congregated at the Augusta Municipal Golf Course, the only course that allowed Black players in an era of exclusion.
Affectionately known as "The Patch," Augusta Municipal was located just five miles south of the exclusive Augusta National. Established in 1928 and designed by Scottish golfer David Ogilvie, this public course stretched just under 5,900 yards, featuring three par-5s, four par-3s, and a par-71 layout. It was more than just a golf course; it was a social hub, a place where Black golfers could hone their skills, share camaraderie, and find respite. The course's nickname originated from Red Douglas, a longtime manager who grew a vegetable garden near the 10th hole, leading locals to call it the "Cabbage Patch." Over time, as the garden faded and weeds took over, the name evolved to "The Patch."
Observing this thriving scene, Dent realized his entry into the sport would be through caddying. At 15, he caddied in his first of three Masters tournaments. More valuable than the money he earned were the priceless lessons gleaned from watching legends like Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, and Ben Hogan. He also carried bags for future major winners Bob Goalby and Gene Littler.
Images courtesy of the Dent Family
Breaking Barriers and Chasing a Dream
Access to playing opportunities remained a challenge, but Dent found ways to hone his skills. Several Armed Forces golf courses in Augusta permitted Black players on Mondays—if they worked as caddies. He took full advantage, playing at Fort Gordon's nine-hole course and refining his game alongside his caddy friends at The Patch.
Though Dent briefly played college football on a scholarship at Augusta’s Paine College (an HBCU), his passion for golf never waned. He left the gridiron behind, working odd jobs, waiting tables, and competing in events hosted by the Black-run United Golfers Association.
The PGA of America’s “Caucasian-only” clause, which was not lifted until November 1961—14 years after Jackie Robinson broke baseball’s color barrier—was a stark reminder of the racism Dent faced. When he finally joined the PGA Tour in 1970, he made his mark with victories in events like the Florida PGA Championship and the 1983 Michelob-Chattanooga Gold Cup Classic. His closest brush with a PGA Tour title came in 1972 when he finished second to Jack Nicklaus at the Walt Disney World Classic.
Image courtesy of the Dent Family
Senior Tour Success and a Lasting Legacy
Dent’s career flourished on the Senior PGA Tour (now the PGA Tour Champions), where his prodigious driving distance—regularly exceeding 300 yards with a persimmon driver—became his signature. He captured his first senior title at the 1989 MONY Syracuse Senior Classic, earned Senior Tour Rookie of the Year honors, and recorded 14 top-10 finishes in 1992. With 12 Champions Tour victories, he ranks among the tour's top 25 winners, ahead of icons like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus.
“Jim and I got along so well,” recalled Gary Player. “It was inspiring to see where he came from and how much success he had, especially on the Senior Tour. There were many Black players in my era who could really play—like Jim, Lee Elder, and Charlie Sifford. The laughs and games we shared were unforgettable. I believe we played golf at the best time, before it became all about prize money.”
Dent’s career earnings, nearly $10 million, were largely accumulated after he turned 50, underscoring his late-career success. His contributions to golf have been widely recognized, with inductions into the Georgia Golf Hall of Fame (1994), the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame (2008), and the Caddie Hall of Fame (2022). However, at 85, what brings him the greatest pride is the success of his sons, Jim Jr. and Joseph.
Left to right: Andre Lacey II, Jim Dent Jr., Jim Dent, and Joseph Dent | Image courtesy of the Dent Family
The Next Generation: Carrying the Torch
Jim Dent Jr. has served as the Head Professional at Augusta Municipal Golf Course for years, a position he took after relocating from Shreveport, Louisiana. A former collegiate golfer at Talladega College, an HBCU in Alabama, Jim Jr. moved to Augusta not only to lead this historic course but also to be closer to his father. In 2020, he experienced a particularly proud moment when the street leading to The Patch was renamed Jim Dent Way in his father’s honor.
Exciting developments unfolded in 2023 when Augusta National Golf Club Chairman Fred Ridley announced plans to renovate The Patch. In partnership with Augusta Municipal Golf Course, Aiken Technical College, and the First Tee of Augusta, the project aims to revitalize public golf in Augusta and serve as a model for other communities.
The Patch featuring Jim Dent Jr. | Images courtesy of the Dent Family
While renovations are underway, Jim Jr. is actively pursuing a spot on the PGA Tour Champions. His pursuit will involve extensive training, competing in qualifying tournaments, and refining his game to meet the rigorous standards of senior professional golf.
He’s not the only Dent chasing a professional career. Joseph Dent, Jim’s younger son, is proving to be a competitive force. “I was about 18 or 19 when I knew I wanted to be a professional golfer,” he recalls.
Jim Dent and his son, Joseph Dent | Images courtesy of the Dent Family
Joseph fondly remembers sharpening his skills at The Patch, where weekly skins games offered both camaraderie and a way to earn extra cash. “It was a great experience—sometimes I’d make $20 or $40 a day.” His father’s mentorship has been invaluable. “He’s given me advice on fundamentals—grip, swing mechanics, the mental game, and how to score well even when I’m not playing my best.” One piece of advice from his father that resonates deeply is, “Put in the work, and you’ll get out what you put in.”
With a game marked by improved driving and strong iron play, Joseph has competed on the APGA Tour and the Asian Development Tour. Currently training in the Dominican Republic, he plays 36 holes daily at top courses like Playa Dorada, a Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed layout in Puerto Plata. The cost-effective location allows him to stretch his budget while refining his game.
Jim Dent | Images courtesy of the Dent Family
A Legacy in Motion
From the fairways of Augusta National to the heart of The Patch, Jim Dent’s story is one of perseverance, triumph, and legacy. Now, with his sons striving to carve their own paths in professional golf, his vision endures—one generation, one swing at a time.
