Berg, Patty (1918–)

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Berg, Patty (1918–)

American golfer. Born Patricia Jane Berg, Feb 13, 1918, in Minneapolis, Minnesota; never married.

Foremost American golfer and 1st president of the LPGA, won 29 amateur events (1934–41) and over 60 professional golf tournaments (1941–62), including 15 majors; played in the Curtis Cup (1936, 1938); served as a lieutenant in the Marine Corps during WWII; won 3 Vare Trophies for the lowest average score (1953, 1955, and 1956). Named Associated Press Woman Athlete of the Year (1938, 1943, 1955); received Bob Jones Award (1963); given Ben Hogan Award for playing despite a handicap (1975); received Herb Graffis Award for contributions to golf as recreation (1981).

See also Women in World History.