The grand opening of the Cleophus and Charles Hudson Clubhouse at the Links at Pine Hill Golf Course in South Memphis marked a historic day for the Black golf community. The clubhouse was named after Cleophus and Charles Hudson, two influential figures in Memphis golf history. Charles Hudson, the first Black golf pro at Pine Hill, credited his family’s accomplishments and community involvement for the honor of having the clubhouse named after them.
The dedication event also featured a 9-hole scramble on the recently renovated course to raise money and draw attention to the historic occasion. Charles Hudson, who started playing at Pine Hill and went on to play golf on a scholarship at Southern University, paid tribute to his father Cleophus Hudson Sr., who was the first minority golfer to tee off at the desegregated Pine Hill Golf Course in 1962. The moment was captured by photographer Ernest Withers and featured in the Tri State Defender newspaper.
Professional golfer J.P. Thornton, who got his start on the Links at Pine Hill and played college golf on a scholarship before turning pro, reflected on the rich history of the clubhouse and its significance in the community. Former PGA Tour pro Loren Roberts, who played in the Pine Hill scramble, praised the recent course renovations and highlighted the importance of having a quality golf course in the heart of South Memphis.
Roberts also commended Mickey Barker, the city of Memphis golf director, for building youth programs at municipal courses like Pine Hill, Audubon, and Whitehaven. He noted that Memphis stands out for its programs that allow kids under 16 to play for free, emphasizing the importance of getting young people involved in the game of golf. Roberts also encouraged city leaders to continue promoting the FedEx St. Jude Championship, stressing the significance of the tournament as the start of the FedExCup Playoffs.
The clubhouse program included speeches by Memphis Council members and other dignitaries, as well as honoree Charles Hudson. The event brought together golfers, community members, and city leaders to celebrate the legacy of the Hudson family and the impact they have had on the Black golf community in Memphis. The dedication of the Cleophus and Charles Hudson Clubhouse serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and honoring the history and contributions of Black golfers in the city.
