Barbara Nicklaus to receive PGA Distinguished Service Award

Barbara Nicklaus has received the annual PGA Distinguished Service Award, which honors individuals who display leadership and humanitarian qualities in the game of golf.

Nicklaus, 79, joins her husband of nearly 60 years, Jack, who won the award back in 2000. The award, which celebrates sportsmanship, integrity and enthusiasm for golf, is issued by the PGA of America, and will honor Barbara at its annual meeting on Nov. 5.

“To say that I was speechless when Suzy Whaley called to inform me that I was to receive this award would be an understatement,” Barbara Nicklaus said. “When I took a minute to think about the award, I realized that I have a huge passion for a short four-letter word – GOLF – and that golf has been a very important part of my life for almost 60 years. It has opened so many doors to allow me to attempt to ‘give back’ to the game that Jack loved when I met him and to the game that I now love, cherish and support unconditionally.”

The Nicklaus family is well known for its contributions toward child hospital care, highlighted by the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami. The entire Miami Children’s Hospital network is now under the Nicklaus name, and includes 15 locations. Jack’s annual tournament, the Memorial, benefits Nationwide Children’s Hospital each year, as well as other central Ohio charities.

“Barbara Nicklaus exemplifies what the words ‘giving back’ truly mean,” said PGA President Suzy Whaley. “From the platform of golf, her unlimited energy and passion for serving as a philanthropist has offered hope and a pathway to vital healthcare for countless children.”

Barbara and Jack Nicklaus are the second couple to receive the award, joining Mark and Debi Rolfing.

Nicklaus Companies and GOLF.com are operated by the same holding company, 8AM Golf.