Bob Murphy

Hall of Fame- Golf

Bob Murphy has sustained a level of success in golf that few golfers in history can stake claim to. The Mulberry native has won at all levels, including the amateur and collegiate ranks, the PGA Tour, and the Champions Tour. He has also gone on to become a staple in broadcasting, working as a color analyst for ESPN and NBC.

In 1966, Bob won the U.S. Amateur, and shortly thereafter he graduated from the University of Florida and went on to be named 1966 Rookie of the year of the PGA Tour. He attributes his success as a player to his time spent as an ESPN Golf Commentator. As he analyzed players’ games for the television viewers, he noticed similar flaws in his own game and worked on correcting them.

Bob Murphy’s determination and perseverance have translated into a successful career both on and off the golf course. After playing on the PGA Tour for 25 years, Bob was afflicted with severe arthritis. He was determined to beat the condition and continue playing the game he loved. His fortitude prevailed, and Murphy has not only continued to play, but has achieved an impressive 11 victories on the Champions Tour.

Bob’s most successful year was 1995. He won four titles, including the IntelliNet Challenge, Paine Webber Invitational, Nationwide Championship, and VFW Senior Championship. In 1998 Bob was honored to receive the Ben Hogan Award, which recognizes individuals remaining active in golf despite a serious illness.

Along with his busy schedule as a player and announcer, Bob also continues to do speaking engagements and golf clinics at corporate outings and charity events throughout the country. He also heads the longest running charitable pro-am in the country, which has raised over $2,000,000 in the past 37 years for Bethesda Hospital. Bob also continues working with the Hook-a-Kid-on-Golf Foundation, where he serves as the National Spokesperson.