African American trailblazers have come from all types of environments, over came insurmountable obstacles, are represented by both sexual genders and gave of self to help others. Many times during our history just enduring the difficulties of the time, place and social environment were a challenge for every African American. But, the innovators, leaders and trailblazers went a little further than the average person, challenging, the status quo in a variety of ways. Throughout every generation in African American history individuals gave of themselves to improve the blight of African Americans as a group and as individuals. In every one of those generations, people made the ultimate sacrifice by the giving of their lives, to improve the lot of current African Americans and  those who followed. Thank goodness our forefathers and mothers had the tenacity, strength of character and determination to fight for future generations. Well, Pete Brown is one those whos charter, pride and sheer guts make him one of the most important trailblazers of this century.

Pete Brown was not the First African American to obtain a (PGA) Professional Golfers Association players card Charlie Sifford was. But, Pete Brown was the First African American to WIN a PGA event, proving that we could compete and more importantly given the chance would excel. His winning proved again that given a chance we as African Americans will always excel and rise to the top. Pete Brown was born during a time of segregation and overt racism, but he never let anything stand in the way of his dreams. Fighting through a life threatening illness in 1956, and racist golf course employees. Dealing with the throngs of racist spectators, who did everything they could do to distract and sway him from his appointment with destiny. Every African American who meets Pete Brown should thank him for opening the doors of opportunity.

Pete Browns initial victory was not just important to African American golfers, but more importantly to African Americans who sought to participate in the business arena. On the golf courses of America the real business relationships are formed and deals are made. So in my humble opinion, Pete Browns place in history is as important although never as publicized as Jackie Robinsons. For Pete Brown by winning proved once and for all that we belonged no matter what said and done. Change is slow, even to this day African Americans and other groups continue the fight be treated equally in America. Pete Brown played on the PGA tour for seventeen years, won a second tour victory the Andy Williams Open in San Diego, California in 1970 and numerous other non-PGA events including the National Negro Championship four times. But that first PGA victory in 1964 at the Waco Open will always be the most important, because being first is never easy. I salute you Mr. Pete Brown you are a legend and true trailblazer a true Hero in every sense of the word.