Among the 40 million active golfers in the world today, Callaway is recognized by touring pros and amateurs alike for having created the most compatible golf equipment ever made. Indeed, Callaway's revolutionary approach to research and manufacturing changed the game, and how people approached it, for the largest subset of players in history.
However, not many know that the company was founded by one man, Ely Callaway (1919-2001), who, at the age of 65—after enjoying successful careers in textiles and wine—began it as a garage start-up in southern California. Within ten years, Ely (Ee-lee) built the Callaway Golf Company into the largest golf club company in the world and one of the sport's most prestigious brands. Golf was Ely's passion project: he had spent 50 years playing the game as an amateur; following the example of his hero and first cousin, Grand Slam winner Bobby Jones; analyzing the golf industry; and reflecting on the true meaning of the game.
The success of the Callaway Golf Company was a direct result of its charismatic leader, who made a deep impression on everyone he met. Ely was beloved by millions around the world, from golfers to presidents, pop stars, to corporate titans, and most importantly, the weekend players who often struggled with their game.
In the last years of his life, Ely wrote a book about the secrets of his success. He wanted to share his outlook on life with others, and why he kept at "the unconquerable game" for as long as he did. Ely died in 2001 however, before he was able to publish the book.
Now, a generation later, the "lost book" of Ely Callaway is finally edited and compiled by his son, Nicholas Callaway, and co-editor, Andrew Moorhead. Here for the first time are Ely's stories from his lifetime in the game of golf, the people he met along the way, as well as vignettes from his career in business. Ely was a man who loved his work and sport and life, and the wisdom embedded in these pages offers promising life lessons for all.
Author: Ely Callaway
Ely Reeves Callaway Jr. (1919–2001) was an American entrepreneur who left an indelible mark on the golf industry. After successful careers in textiles and winemaking, he founded Callaway Golf Company in 1982, revolutionizing the game with innovative equipment like the Big Bertha driver. Ely's philosophy of combining quality, innovation, and a passion for the game made him a beloved figure among golfers worldwide.
Editor: Nicholas Callaway & Andrew Moorhead
Nicholas Callaway is an internationally renowned publisher, app developer, television producer, brand creator, art gallerist, writer, photographer, and teacher with more than 40 years spent at the leading edge of contemporary media and design. He is the Founder & CEO of Callaway Arts & Entertainment, a content-driven, intellectual property creation and production company across all media platforms, with headquarters in New York City. CA & E specializes in print-based and eBooks, computer-animated television series, mobile and tablet applications, and trend-forward, design-driven lifestyle brands and immersive experiences. Nicholas Callaway is the son of Ely Callaway.
Andrew Moorhead is a playwright, book editor, social satirist, historical researcher, and science communicator. Work for theater includes "This Purple F***ing Pot" (The Tank), "Bravo" (Spotify, New Musicals Inc., Azusa Pacific University, Ball State University), and "Nothing Happens and Nobody Knows What They're Talking About" (Berkley Repertory Theater). Andrew regularly creates for Nautilus Magazine, Honda Research Institute, Hanson Robotics, and more. He's previously worked as a political speech writer, co-created several board games, and twice performed bird calls on The Late Show With David Letterman. MFA: NYU. BFA: Chapman University.
Publisher: Callaway Arts & Entertainment