Henry Cotton (1907-87) was much more than the winner of a three British Opens.  He also championed the cause of British golf professionals seeking a higher ground in their country's society, and became a patriarch of the European Golf Tour.  Described as witty, handsome, intelligent, urbane and a non-conformist, Cotton authored 10 books, designed golf courses and was the most respected and prolific British instructor of his era.  His philosophy was simple: "To be a champion, you must act like one."

Cotton's devotion to practice was almost maniacal, for he believed the only secrets to becoming a champion golfer were hard work and strong hands.  For hours upon hours, Cotton was known to hit balls from thick rough until his hands blistered and bled.  It was an obsession that paid off, as he won the British Open in 1934, 1937, and 1948.

In addition to those popular victories, Cotton also won 30 tournaments in Europe.  He played for his country in three Ryder Cup matches and twice captained the British team, but most of his time after his last British Open victory was dedicated to instruction, designing golf courses and giving back to the game that had given so much to him.

He was elected to the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1980.