Carl Jackson Speaking Fee: $50,000 to $75,000

Carl Jackson is a retired caddie from Augusta National Golf Club, renowned for his deep knowledge of the course and his longstanding partnership with two-time Masters champion Ben Crenshaw. Born in 1946 in Augusta, Georgia, Jackson began caddying at the age of 11 to support his family, growing up in the predominantly Black Sand Hills neighborhood. At 13, he transitioned to Augusta National, where he would go on to caddie in 54 Masters Tournaments—the most by any caddie in the event’s history. Jackson’s expertise in reading Augusta’s challenging greens became his signature. He first teamed up with Ben Crenshaw in 1976, a partnership that would yield two Masters victories in 1984 and 1995. Their bond was not just professional but personal, with Jackson offering swing advice and emotional support, particularly during Crenshaw’s 1995 win, which was dedicated to Crenshaw’s late mentor, Harvey Penick. Beyond his caddying career, Jackson worked for 30 years with Jack Stephens, former chairman of Augusta National, managing properties and assisting with various duties. In 1988, he became the first Black non-professional to play at Augusta National as a guest, marking a significant personal milestone. After retiring from full-time caddying in 2015, Jackson continued to influence the golfing world. He established the Carl Jackson Foundation to support underprivileged youth through golf, emphasizing life lessons such as honesty, self-discipline, and wellness. He also serves as the caddie master at the Alotian Club near Little Rock, Arkansas, where he resides. Jackson’s legacy is celebrated through the documentary "Rise Above: The Carl Jackson Story," which highlights his journey from a young caddie in segregated Georgia to a respected figure in the golfing community. His story is one of perseverance, mentorship, and a deep love for the game of golf.