The story of Tony Lema, one of the brightest stars on the PGA Tour in the mid-1960s, winner of the 1964 British Open, is a story of love, faith and redemption. Raised by his mother, Clotilda, after his father’s death, he overcame a troubled youth. His mother, an incredibly strong and hardworking woman, instilled a deep faith and devotion to God. He began winning on the PGA Tour only after meeting and falling in love with Betty Cline, who became his wife. As he later admitted about his career, “When we became serious, I became serious.” After his first victory, at the Orange County Open in October of 1962, he treated the press to Champagne thus earning the endearing nickname, “Champagne Tony.” In 1964, he went on a tear winning four events, including the British Open, in a six-week stretch. In the process, he enjoyed the lifestyle his stardom provided. Travelling with Betty in a small plane to a charity golf event in 1966, they ran out of gas and crashed on a golf course, killing them both.

Uncorked, The Life and Times of Champagne Tony Lema tells the story of his troubled youth, wild times as a head pro at Ruby View golf course in Elko, Nevada, his experiences as a bachelor on the PGA Tour, the romance with Betty and the trials and tribulations of making a good living as a professional golfer. With a cast of characters including Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Fred Corcoran, the Duke of Windsor and even the Pope, Uncorked reveals a story full of action, adventure, love and faith, and ultimately, redemption.

About the Author

This is the first book written by Larry Baush, although he has written extensively for magazines on beer, food and travel. He grew up on a golf course with an avid love of the game and followed the PGA Tour and its stars, including Tony Lema. He plays close to 100 rounds of golf per year and works in a retail golf shop in Seattle, Washington. Larry can be contacted at lbaush@clearwire.net.