There have been many memorable moments in televised golf over the years. But, I think none are as good as Shell’s Wonderful World Of Golf. While the concept of televised golf was not new, the show raised standards by introducing a unique approach.
All Star Golf was an early TV program. It tried to get the game in every home across America. Many of these early programs are still available on the Golf Channel. It’s fascinating to compare the current state of television. The old station wagon, which was carrying the camera equipment, can be seen following players. One camera was most commonly used, and it is rare to see a player play a round. Stark diagrams of holes were used to compress the telecast as well as to permit time for the movement and reorganization of equipment.
1957 was the year. Jim Britt was the original show’s host. He had broadcast baseball for the Boston Braves, the Boston Red Sox, and, later, for the Cleveland Indians.
All Star Golf was a three-year project that resulted in the creation of Shell’s Wonderful World. Monroe Spaght (President of Shell USA) saw an episode in 1960 and was immediately interested in what golf could look like on TV. However, he saw an even larger scope than what All Star Golf provided. It filmed most matches in Chicago first, then other places around the United States.
Spaght was a visionary with bigger plans. Spaght was aware that Shell was a multinational corporation. He wanted to create a show with a broad audience. It was the result of Shell’s Wonderful World Of Golf. Gene Sarazen was appointed host of the program and went on to show viewers nine years, over 90 matches and some of the most stunning spots in the world.
The program’s unique feature was, in fact, the mini-travelogues it spent on the areas where matches were held. This program was not just focused on golf, but opened up worlds to beauty for its large audience. It took us places that we had never seen and educated us about the many locations in which golf can be played.
This program is also known for having a wide range of commentary, from many sources. Every comment was relevant and useful, from Sarazen through Dave Marr to George Rogers. Jack Whitaker’s lucid contributions were perhaps the best part of all. His mastery over the spoken word was unmatched, as well as the visuals created by it. Whitaker was able to sum up the essence and character of each game, as well as the location in which they were played in just thirty seconds. Whitaker gave the entire program an air of authority, especially the end after each match.
It would be great to have the show featuring stars of today return. Although the Golf Channel shows older programs often, they remain cherished fond memories. However, it would be fantastic to see current players in the same situation. Although it is likely that it will be too costly, it certainly would be a nice thing.