45 years at The Masters

Carl Jackson 

Professional Caddy

At the age of 11, Jackson began his caddy career—not because of an interest in golf—but, to help support his mother and 8 siblings. The second oldest child, Jackson took on the role of the man of the household. Hence, he dropped out of school and began caddying at Augusta Country Club. Three years later, he became a caddy at Augusta National Golf Club. Jackson’s earnings—sometimes as much as $100 a week—provided food, clothing, and shelter for his family.

During his initial years at Augusta National, Jackson met President Dwight Eisenhower, and Jackson Stephens, financier and philanthropist, who served from 1991–1998 as the chairman of Augusta National Golf Club. Through their encouragement, Jackson enrolled and completed a high school home-study course that earned him a high school diploma. Jackson’s relationship with Stephens evolved into full-time employment and a lasting friendship.

Jackson worked for Stephens as his valet, caddy, and confidant. In 1973, he relocated to Little Rock, Arkansas, where he continued to work for Stephens. In 2003, Warren Stephens, Jack Stephens’ son and owner of The Alotian Club, hired Jackson as caddy manager. Jackson currently holds that position at The Alotian Club.

Carl Jackson is a co-founder of Fore! Productions, Inc., a digital media company that offers a golf internet television channel. He is a PCA Worldwide Caddy Hall of Fame inductee; and he has been featured in numerous publications including the 2007 Masters Preview in "Golf Digest" magazine.

To request Carl Jackson for personal appearances and speaking engagements, send a contact name, telephone number, email address, venue, and projected date to this email address.

Carl's Playing Tips   Sand bunker shots can be intimidating. Here is a tip that may help you save par or even make a birdie. 

• When you have a bunker shot that is about 30 feet from the flagstick, make your right hand grip weaker than your normal grip (for a left-handed player, it is the left hand grip); and make an aggressive swing. 

New techniques should be first, practiced at the driving range, not the golf course; and, you and your instructor should decide whether the tips work for you and your golf game. It's okay to practice on the golf course. Just have a game plan before you start your round and please...keep up the pace of play.

I will be writing more about sand bunker shots (ball position, stance, etc.), so add this site to "your favorites" list and check back often.  —Carl Jackson, The Caddy Coach

Carl Jackson

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