May 13, 2008 -- ATLANTA -- Furman Bisher, a journalistic icon and one of golf's most prolific supporters, will turn 90 years old this year. For a little perspective on his longevity, The PGA of America, the world's largest working sports organization, will turn 92. And the two have shared a rich and storied history together -- a fact brought out by The PGA of America's presence at the Furman Bisher Roast & Toast held Tuesday evening just outside of Atlanta.

Julius Mason, Senior Director, Communications and Media Relations for The PGA of America, presents Furman Bisher with a special gift honoring his contributions to golf and The PGA of America. (Photo: PGA.com)

Bisher's imprint on sports and culture extends far beyond just golf. The long-time columnist for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution has covered 54 Kentucky Derbys, every Super Bowl other than the first one, covered the first NASCAR race and scored the journalistic coup of getting the only interview ever granted by Shoeless Joe Jackson following the historic 1919 Black Sox scandal -- a feat he was able to achieve 30 years after Jackson's banishment from the game. His legacy in the sports world was evidenced by the myriad of sports icons who appeared, either in person or via taped message, to honor the man and celebrate his upcoming 90th birthday. Former Los Angeles Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda sent a greeting, as did Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox. United States Senators Johnny Isakson and Saxby Chambliss of Georgia passed along kind videotaped messages and a letter from President Bush was printed out for all the guests to view. ESPN commentator Lee Corso served as the host of the gala affair and featured speakers included Georgia Governor Sonny Purdue, NFL Hall of Famer Sam Huff, Former NFL player and coach Dan Reeves and the president of the Atlanta Braves John Schuerholz. Also speaking were former or current co-workers, the president of the Atlanta City Council (proclaiming May 13, 2008 as Furman Bisher Day in the city of Atlanta) and other luminaries of the sports world.

But there was little question what sport held center stage in Bisher's career and the role that The PGA of America held within that distinguished body of work. Bisher's vast array of golf writings include the first feature story for the debut of GOLF magazine in 1959, coining the nickname "Lord Byron" for Byron Nelson, and at various times serving as president of the National Sportscasters, the Sportswriters Association, and the Golf Writers Association of America. His legacy on golf is so profound that The PGA of America honored him with a Lifetime Achievement Award -- in 1996. Twelve years later, Bisher is still writing golf.

Many of golf's greats, including Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, and iconic facilities such as Augusta National and Oakmont Country Club, sent along their regards -- as well as some commemorative gifts for the legendary writer. Julius Mason, Senior Director, Communications and Media Relations for The PGA of America, presented Bisher with an original Louisville Courier-Journal newspaper from Bisher's birthday -- Nov. 4, 1918. Valhalla Golf Club in Lousiville, Ky., will play host to the 2008 Ryder Cup later this year. Mason also presented Bisher with a rare 1918 antique golf club mounted on a special PGA display case.

"It's still in great shape and ready to go," Mason proclaimed as he presented the gift, "just like you Furman."

Mason also added a special thanks to Bisher on behalf of the 28,000 men and women members of The PGA of America for whom Bisher has been a stalwart advocate during his writing career.

Bisher concluded the evening with emotional remarks thanking the 1,200 plus guests who turned out to honor him. He remarked on his family and friends, his love and passion for sports, and his never-ending pursuit for the perfect newspaper column. He's not sure he'll ever find it, but he's not going to quit trying. Once again similar to The PGA of America, Bisher knows it's not always about winning -- it's more important to be in the game.