Evening star., 1936-04-02
FREE EXHIBITIONS
ACETATE CRITICS
ErstWhiIe Ace of Amateurs
Figures to Get $4,000
in First Year.
BY ALAN GOULD,

UGUSTA, Ga, April 2.-While
n a deluge washed out the first
II round OF the Augusta national
4 4 tournament, William Lawson
Little, jr., king of the worlds amateurs
for the last two years. emerged today
as the latest notable recruit to the
ranks of professional golf.
In making the big jump that took
two famous championship predeces-
sorss, Robert T. Jones, jr., and George
Won Elm, from the ranks of the simon
pures six years ago, Little ended at
the age of only Is an amateur career
that dazzled two continents in 1884
and 1885.
With a world-record streak of 81
consecutive victories in title match
play, the San Francisco siege gum
captured the American and British
crowns twice in succession. His de-
cision not only means the relinquish-
ment of both championships. at the
peak of his career, but removes his
chance to captain this years Ameri-
can Walker Cup team.
With his bride, the former Dorothy
Hurd Of Chicago. nodding her smiling
agreement, Little declared today he
was happy in making the decision
that offers the chance to get down to
work."
Gets Long-Term Contract.
THE details have yet to be worked
out, but shortly he will sign con-
tracts, he said, for long-term goli
promotion venture, sponsored by a
national sporting goods (spalding's 50
concern.
Little will be associated with Bob
Jones in work which the Georgian
described as educational" Present
plans call for Little to lead a tour
ing party which will give exhibitions,
show motion pictures and otherwise
seek to create wider interest in golf
playing. Jones will act only in an
advisory capacity. The aim is to
reach public courses, schools and COL
leges with the promotional program.
The Californian also will take his
chances with other professionals in
open competition for prize money. He
will join the money brigade" here
for the first time. He will compete
in the United States open at Bal
tusrol, N. j., in June. If possible, he
will go to England to try again for
the British open title. He was fourth
last year in the British open after
conquering the amateur field.
Not Eligible for p. G. A.
A THOUGH pro" for all prac-
tical purposes, Little is not eligible
now for membership in the Profess
sional Golfers Association and prob
ably won't be. Requirements for
membership call for a three-year
apprenticeship" employment by a
club as teaching pro" and part
proprietorship at least in a golf shop.
Regardless of any welcome mat"
on the P. G.. A. doorstep, Little fig
ures to do pretty well for himself.
1t Is estimated he will realize $4,000
at least in his first year in the golf
business. That is exclusive of tour
nament prize money, Endorsements Of
commercial products or the sale of
clubs bearing his name.
Professional reaction to Little's
move. which came as no startling
surprise to golf followers, was some
what cool. Several pros criticized the
promotion plan for Little and his
touring companions, probably includ-
ing Jimmy Thompson, to give free
exhibitions. Veterans of the touring
circuit apparently think such ac-
nvity will cut down prospective
"gates."
Cana Saoc IIaHd Hall