The latest Arnie bio has a yearly journal feel
There have been more than 25 major Arnold Palmer biographies, all of which have been written in narrative form as most biographies are done. The newest Palmer bio approaches his life from a different chronological view. “The Ultimate Arnie: The Unmatched Golf Legacy of Arnold Palmer,” by this website’s producer Cliff Schrock, was released on August 9 and is available for $32.99 on Amazon.com.
The Ultimate Arnie is a stout 542 pages, but its size is due to the way the book was written in journal style, a year-by-year datebook format that focuses on Arnie’s public golf life. With an appendix that provides the most detailed account of his record, awards, and statistics, The Ultimate Arnie is broken into yearly chapters that trace his golf life from 3-year-old to senior icon, showcasing his results and quotes by utilizing the original real-time media coverage of Arnie’s career. That has brought out quotes long since buried by time.
The foreword is written by Jack Nicklaus, and afterword by Peter Jacobsen. The book benefited from a thorough review by Donald (Doc) Giffin, Palmer’s assistant for 50 years, who provided enhancements and clarifications to the text.
Early praise for the book has come from several observers, including:
“It’s incredible how much I have learned about my own grandfather. It’s so fun to learn about moments in his life/career that aren’t the everyday stories and accomplishments.” Sam Saunders, Arnold Palmer grandson; professional golfer
“Cliff Schrock has made an important contribution to the library of golf with this magnificent monograph befitting the King—exhaustively researched, impeccably fact-checked, lovingly written by one of Arnie’s best fans. If you want to own a piece of Palmer, here’s where to start. He’s tracked literally every day of his life. I’ve known Cliff for more than 40 years and there’s no better pro equipped to tell this story. Pour yourself a Ketel One, find a comfortable leather chair and sit back for the ultimate treat.” Jerry Tarde, Golf Digest Chairman and Editor-in-Chief (since 1984, the longest serving chief editor in media); Global Head of Strategy and Content TNT Sports
“This really is the ultimate Arnie book! You have made the great man quite proud with this effort.” Jim Nantz, lead golf announcer, CBS Sports; Golf Digest columnist
“Congratulations on a monumental task well done.” Doc Giffin, personal assistant, and press secretary for Arnold Palmer for 51 years
“Thanks to the talented and tireless Cliff Schrock, the legacy of the most important golfer ever has been enriched by the most complete golfing chronicle ever compiled. This deepest of dives into Palmer’s magnetic playing career presents an exhaustive yet irresistibly flowing year-by-year narrative beginning at boyhood in Latrobe and bursting with heroically rescued detail, gratifying depth and judicious perspective. A beautifully rendered labor of love by one of the game’s foremost researchers, and a great contribution to golf’s recorded history.” Jaime Diaz, Golf Channel Insider, in-studio contributor; Golf Digest Writer-at-Large