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Jim Howard, a PGA pro who received personal thanks from Tiger Woods on his retirement, is set to tee it up again in the PGA Super 60s at Thorpeness Golf Club from August 14-15.

Personal letters received from the 14-time major winner upon Howard’s retirement take pride of place in Howard’s Gwent home. Although, the 70-year-old remains modest as to his impact on Woods’ career.

“For me colour was never an issue.” – Jim Howard

“Tiger said it was thanks to people like myself that had opened the door for the likes of him to get into golf,” said Howard.

“But coming from Liverpool it was just a question of ‘if you are good enough you get on’. For me colour was never an issue, it’s all about how much work you are prepared to put in.”

Jim Howard heads to the Suffolk gem eager to catch up with old friends carved out during 35 years as head professional at Pontypridd in South Wales. Howard will also have a new playing partner – Rob Watkins – by his side in the £10,000 event.

Jim Howard v Bob Hope

Howard enjoyed a successful career in golf after becoming the first black PGA professional, with highlights including playing golf with Bob Hope as a young assistant at Wyke Green.

Howard’s first job in golf was with famous club-maker Jack Lovelock at Wyke Green in Middlesex. It was there that he ended up playing golf with the Hollywood legend.

The funnyman, flying into film in London, had seen the Wyke Green course from his plane on the approach to Heathrow and, as film stars do, on a whim decided he wanted a game.

“He called me again for a game when he was next in the country.” – Jim Howard

Hope phoned up, and Lovelock duly dispatched Howard to play a round with him.

It was an experience Jim Howard would never forget.

“I couldn’t quite believe it to be honest but he was quite a good player and he called me again for a game when he was next in the country,” recalled Howard.

“He also took the trouble to send me a letter and some trinkets for playing with him.”

Jim Howard back to ‘chew the fat’

With his interest in course design, Howard will certainly savour the James Braid designed course at Thorpness, but he is equally is looking forward to the chat and banter with his fellow PGA pros.

“It is a great way for pros to get together for a couple of days, chew the fat a little bit over old times,” said the Liverpudlian. “While we might not hit the ball like we used to there is still some great camaraderie.”

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