Chi Chi Rodriguez is one of the great showmen in sports history. In a career
which spans four decades, Chi Chi won 8 times on the PGA Tour and now boasts 22
Senior Tour victories. His colorful performances still make him a gallery
favorite, while his shotmaking skills have earned him the respect of his peers.
It has been said that pound for pound Chi Chi is the longest hitter in the
history of golf. At 5ft. 7in. and weights ranging from 112 to 130 pounds, the
wiry Puerto Rican has at times driven a golf ball over 350 yards. He has
consistently been at over 250 yards throughout his career.
Juan "Chi Chi" Rodriguez was born in 1935 in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico. As a
young boy, he helped his father in the hot dusty fields to tend the sugar
cane. It was at the age of 12, however, that his golf expertise showed itself
when he shot a 67. Chi Chi became known for his eye-hand coordination and
imaginative skills that for more than 40 years have helped him overcome all
types of obstacles. He showcases these skills at golf clinics and exhibitions
around the country. Chi Chi's talents, however, extend beyound what he is able
to do with the golf ball. From his matador routine to his good-natured
impersonations of fellow competitors, Chi Chi is an entertainer at heart.
But what separates Chi Chi from everyone else is that he has coupled his
success on the golf course with a strong personal desire to make a positive
impact. This has manifested itself in the countless hours he spends at The Chi
Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation which is in Clearwater, Florida. His foundation
is home to troubled and abused youngsters. Chi Chi's philosophy is simple. He
wants kids to have a chance. "I figure kids are the future. If I made it,
anybody can do it. I think I can be a good role model for them because they
can look at me and say, 'look, he's a small guy, he was ver poor, and he worked
hard and he made it.' If I can help one kid become successful in life because
he wanted to be like I was, that's all I ask for."
It is through examples like this that Chi Chi has proven that he is not only a
great golf champion, but a champion in life.
