Lee Elder’s ‘earth shattering day’ for golf reaches marquee anniversary

Fifty years on from becoming the first black golfer to tee up at the Masters, the sport must pause to recognise a pioneer

For Carl Jackson, the path was one well trodden. Caddie shed to 1st tee; he had done it hundreds of times over 14 years as a bag man at the Masters. Jackson's connection to Augusta National stretched even beyond his major debut of 1961. He was a caddie at the venue from the age of 14, breaching employment law even as existed in 1950s Georgia but savvy enough to make a mark. Jackson was quickly accepted.

This time, Jackson had no cause to give advice over a choice of club. He had no competitor anxiety to calm. Thursday 10 April 1975. Fore please, now driving: Lee Elder. Jackson made sure he formed part of the gallery. A Masters colour split - caddies black, players white - was about to end.