In the early 1950’s, visitors came to St. Petersburg for more than sunshine and sandy beaches. They also came to see some of the biggest names in sports, including golf legend Babe Didrikson Zaharias.
By then, Babe (pictured) was one of the most accomplished athletes in the world and a founding member of the Ladies Professional Golf Association. Although she lived across the bay at Tampa’s Forest Hills Golf & Country Club, which she owned with her husband George Zaharias, she was a familiar presence on St. Petersburg’s golf courses. Her appearances in tournaments and exhibitions attracted spectators from across the region, adding another reason for tourists to visit the Sunshine City.
At Forest Hills, Babe hosted golf clinics while continuing to compete at the highest level, even after being diagnosed with cancer in 1953. Her remarkable comeback included winning the 1954 U.S. Women’s Open, cementing her place among the greatest athletes in history.
Like so many attractions featured in our new exhibit, Babe Zaharias helped make Tampa Bay a destination. Visitors came not only for Florida’s warm weather, but also for unforgettable experiences they could only find here.
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