Leisure Hour Golf Club celebrates 80 years of inclusion

A recent government meeting highlighted the proclamation of August 16-18, 2024, as the Leisure Hour Golf Club's 80th Anniversary Scholarship Weekend. Commissioner Dan Ryan, who introduced the proclamation, emphasized the club's significant role in promoting inclusivity in golf since its founding in 1944. The Leisure Hour Golf Club, recognized as the oldest African American golf club west of the Mississippi, was established to combat segregation and discrimination in the sport.

During the meeting, Ryan praised the club's legacy of breaking down barriers and fostering community through golf. He acknowledged the founders, including Vernon Gaskin and Gladys Ricks, for their vision in creating a space for Black golfers. The club has not only provided recreational opportunities but also established a scholarship tournament that supports young Black golfers in their educational pursuits.

Vincent Johnson, Director of Golf for Portland Parks and Recreation, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the club's impact on advancing Black representation in golf and its commitment to nurturing future generations through its junior golf program. The program emphasizes core values such as honesty and respect, aiming to equip young participants with skills for both the sport and life.

Leisure Hour Golf Club leaders, including Vice President Jimmy Brown and Junior Golf Program Vice Chair Paul Thomas, expressed gratitude for the city's support and shared their commitment to fostering a love for golf among youth. They noted the importance of providing access to the sport, particularly for children who may not have considered golf as an option.

The meeting concluded with a heartfelt pledge from the junior golfers, reinforcing the values instilled by the program and the community spirit that has defined the Leisure Hour Golf Club for eight decades. The proclamation serves as a reminder of the club's enduring legacy and its role in promoting diversity and inclusion in sports.