Golf Pioneer Jim Dent Dies at 85 After Stroke

Augusta, Georgia – Jim Dent, a pioneer in golf and one of the longest hitters on the PGA Tour, died on May 2 at age 85, just a week before his birthday. Dent suffered a stroke the day after Augusta National Golf Club announced plans for Tiger Woods to design a par-3 course at The Patch, the municipal course where he honed his skills.

Born on May 9, 1939, Dent grew up caddying at Augusta Municipal Golf Course, known as ‘The Patch.’ His journey in golf began as he learned from seasoned players, including Bob Goalby and Byron Nelson. Dent was remembered for his incredible length on the course, once driving the ball 360 yards downhill.

Throughout his career, Dent played in 450 PGA Tour events, earning a total of $565,809, and he made the cut in 296 of them. Although he never managed to win on tour, he had notable finishes, including a runner-up spot to Jack Nicklaus at the 1972 Walt Disney World Open Invitational.

In addition to his contributions to the PGA Tour, Dent captured the World Long Drive Championship in both 1974 and 1975. After turning 50, he transformed his career, becoming a 12-time winner on the PGA Tour Champions, where he led in driving distance for five consecutive years.

“A lot of people will remember Jim Dent for how far he hit the ball, and he really did,” said Miller Brady, president of the PGA Tour Champions. “Yet his long-term success proved Jim was more than just long off the tee.”

Despite his achievements, Dent faced challenges in qualifying for prestigious tournaments like the Masters. He never met the criteria to compete in the Masters but did participate in eight majors, making the cut six times in the PGA Championship and five in the U.S. Open.

Throughout his life, Dent was dedicated to mentoring young golfers. He spent years working with the First Tee of Tampa Bay, influencing many in the sport he cherished. He is survived by his wife, Willye Malveaux; his son, Jim Dent Jr., who is the head pro at The Patch; and several adopted children.

A road was dedicated in his honor, named ‘Jim Dent Way,’ leading into The Patch. Dent’s legacy will continue as Augusta National plans to renovate the course, including a new nine-hole course designed by Woods.