Andy Bean gives 'Knights' the golfing edge

Pro golfer Andy Bean visits Peterson

Andy Bean, a pro golfer with the Professional Golf Association, instructs Peterson members on the secrets to golfing July 29 during a free golf clinic at the Silver Spruce Golf Course at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo. Mr. Bean took time out of his schedule to give the golf clinic while attending the U.S. Senior Open competition at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colo. Mr. Bean, a dominating player on the PGA Tour from 1977-1986, won several minor championships during this time, including the 1977 Doral Eastern Open and the Byron Nelson Golf Classic in 1986. (U.S. Air Force photo/Craig Denton)

Pro golfer Andy Bean visits Peterson

Andy Bean (left), a pro golfer with the Professional Golf Association, is presented an award of appreciation by Col. Jay Raymond, 21st Space Wing commander, after a free golf clinic July 29 at the Silver Spruce Golf Course at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo. Mr. Bean took time out of his schedule to give the golf clinic while attending the U.S. Senior Open competition at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colo. Mr. Bean, a dominating player on the PGA Tour from 1977-1986, won several minor championships during this time, including the 1977 Doral Eastern Open and the Byron Nelson Golf Classic in 1986. (U.S. Air Force photo/Craig Denton)

Published Aug. 4, 2008
By Donna Burrill
21st Force Support Squadron

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- More than 200 golf enthusiasts braved sweltering heat and threatening skies July 29 at Peterson's Silver Spruce Golf Course for the opportunity to see legendary professional golfer, Andy Bean.

During the evening's session, Mr. Bean demonstrated some of the golf techniques that have made him one of the top golfers in the world for decades.

Mr. Bean, who was in town to take part in the U.S. Senior Open Championship at the Broadmoor Resort in Colorado Springs, Colo., spent more than two hours sharing tips and techniques with the crowd, ranging from kids to seniors. His down-home brand of humor and easy interaction with the crowd made him an immediate hit with young and old alike.

Not content to merely demonstrate the golf swings, he drew members from the crowd and gave him tips on how to make improvements to their golf game. The golfing legend also encouraged questions from the spectators about golf topics ranging from club selection to placing a putt close to the hole, and jokingly chided one latecomer who asked him a question about a golf technique he had demonstrated earlier. He was quick to offer her tickets to the Senior Open so she could see in person how the particular swing was made.

At the conclusion of the golf clinic, Mr. Bean was presented with a memento of his visit by Col. Jay Raymond, 21st Space Wing commander. A reception was held at club house where Mr. Bean took the time to greet his many fans, to sign autographs and to offer a few personal pointers.

(NOTE - This article is a Unit Public Affairs Representative submission)