Tilghman's departure culminates several years of reduced presence on Golf Channel's airwavesKELLY TILGHMAN
Longtime Golf Channel host Kelly Tilghman has "decided to wrap up her career" at the net this weekend at the Arnold Palmer Invitational after several years of "quietly cutting back her broadcasting duties," according to GOLFWEEK's Forecaddie. Tilghman is one of the "last remaining on-air presences from the network’s formative years." Her career was "long supported" by both Tiger Woods and Arnold Palmer, who founded the network. Current ESPN host Scott Van Pelt, who worked at Golf Channel in its early years, was "instrumental in getting Tilghman hired." Her departure culminates "several years of reduced presence on air and newfound priorities in her life." Tilghman said, "This process was very peaceful for me" (GOLFWEEK.com, 3/14). AWFUL ANNOUNCING's Jay Rigdon noted Tilghman was the "first woman to serve as a play-by-play commentator for PGA Tour coverage," which is a "big deal in any sport ... but perhaps even bigger in golf." Tilghman’s voice "will be missed." Golf Channel "does have female hosts, but none with Tilghman’s profile" (AWFULANNOUNCING.com, 3/14). Tilghman penned a farewell letter to Golf Channel viewers (THE DAILY).
TWITTER REAX: Golf writer Ryan Ballengee wrote Tilghman "broke down a lot of barriers." TSN's Bob Weeks wrote Tilghman is a "tremendous talent" and a "wonderful person." Golf Channel's Mark Rolfing wrote her impact on the growth of the net "has been incredible." Golf Channel's Matt Ginella wrote Tilghman is a "consummate pro" and makes "everyone around her better." CNBC's Dominic Chu: "One of the most influential & iconic representatives of the game."
