Nantz on Ken Venturi: A deeply principled man with a dynamic presence

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RIP Ken Venturi:

*******

From CBS Sports:

Ken Venturi provided lead analysis and commentary for CBS Sports’ coverage of golf for 35 years from 1968 when he, along with Jack Whitaker, co-hosted “CBS Golf Championship” and “CBS Golf Classic,” until 2002 as the lead golf analyst for the CBS Television Network.  He was the longest-running lead analyst on television for any sport.

One of golf’s elite players, Venturi won the 1964 U.S. Open Championship, and was recently inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in a ceremony on May 6.

Sean McManus, Chairman, CBS Sports: For the second time in a month, the CBS Sports family has lost one of its legends with the passing of Ken Venturi.  Ken was not only one of golf’s greatest champions, but also the signature voice of golf for almost two generations of fans and viewers.  His stature, expertise and personality working in the 18th tower alongside Pat Summerall, Jim Nantz and the rest of the CBS golf team will forever be synonymous with the greatest golf events on CBS.

Jim Nantz: “He was one of the finest gentlemen the world will ever know and one of the greatest friends you could ever have.  He was a deeply principled man with a dynamic presence. He just exuded class.  Through his competitive days and unequalled broadcasting career, Kenny became a human bridge connecting everyone from Sarazen, Nelson and Hogan to the greatest players of today’s generation.  Kenny faced many adversities in his life and always found a way to win.  When I hear Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” I will always believe that Ol’ Blue Eyes was singing that song for his close pal, Kenny Venturi. It makes me think of him every time.  On his farewell broadcast in 2002 I told him, ‘You will be, always by my side.’   Five years later, I wrote a book about my Dad and father figures in my life. I named the book after that very moment.

“I’m so happy he lived to know he was going to be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. I will cherish my 17 years working with him.  But more than that, I will treasure the rich, personal, deep friendship that we shared for nearly 30 years.”