David Sowell is a freelance writer specializing in sports history. In addition to writing for magazines, newspapers, and broadcast outlets, Sowell is the author of The Masters: A Hole-by-Hole History of America’s Golf Classic (2003) and Ike, Golf, and Augusta (2012).
"Sowell, a sports historian, presents a fascinating exploration of the rising world of golf in the early decades of the 20th century. While he focuses on Gene Sarazen, in particular his memorable Masters Tournament win in 1935, Sowell provides details on the other golfers of the day. Readers will learn about the careers of Bobby Jones and Walter Hagen as well as highlights of various American and British Opens. Sowell provides the context for the rising competition between British and American golfers. Sarazen's ""shot heard round the world"" is the centerpiece of this work, but it would not be as significant without all the supporting stories and details. Powell provides a variety of anecdotes to keep the story lively for both the casual golfer and the historian. Sowell's book has something for every level of reader, lending insight into the complexity of the early 1900s...Summing Up: Recommended. All readers. * CHOICE * I vividly remember playing with Gene Sarazen in England in the early days of my career. Simply a superb player to watch and learn from, and thank goodness he invented the sand wedge! He set the bar for all golfers to follow, as he was the first Grand Slam Champion. Gene Sarazen’s life has been very well chronicled in Sarazen: The Story of a Golfing Legend and His Epic Moment by David Sowell. I hope you enjoy learning more about the man who was an inspiration to so many. -- Gary Player, golfing legend and winner of nine major championships"