Phil Lederhouse – Athlete

Born November 23, 1915 In Prince Albert, Phil Lederhouse lost his sight in 1934 at the age of 19. Fifteen years later he took up golf and with no prior experience and six months coaching won the Canadian Championship in Hamilton and placed third in an international blind golfers’ championship.

From 1950, Lederhouse won the Saskatchewan Provincial Championship 17 times, the Western Canadian Championship 16 times and the Canadian Championship for Blind Golfers 5 times (1950, ’51, ’61, ’62 and 1965 ‑ the last championship was held in 1966).

Lederhouse also was runner‑up in world championships twice and in 1966 held the world record for two years when he shot 89 for 18 holes at the Saskatoon Golf and Country Club. He was described as a “threat” in every tournament he took part in because of a natural technique which has been his secret weapon.  Lederhouse has been sponsored extensively by Lions clubs and has golfed with celebrities ‑ Jack Nicklaus, Walter Hagen, Bob Hope and Ed Sullivan.

His wife, Ruby, who is also blind, was responsible for his initial involvement and her continued encouragement made him the star he is.

He was installed in the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame on June 11, 1983.

Inducted into the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame in 1989.