JoAnne “Big Mama” Carner will be competing in her 50th career United States Golf Association (USGA) championship at the age of 85 despite her age and health challenges.
Carner, known as a cigarette-smoking vibrant personality on the golf course, jokingly said the number of stairs to the locker room this year might compel her to give up her nicotine habit.
The golfer is an LPGA legend, having won 43 titles throughout her long career according to Golfweek. “I haven’t made it yet,” she told reporters referring to her previous five appearances at the event.
Carner has an uphill battle when it comes to competing with younger players. Known for her long drives, she is averaging around 205 to 210 years, compared to her desired 220 yards. (RELATED: LPGA’s Charley Hull Cranks Up Her Icon Status By Autographing A Fan’s Cigarette)
Long before she became known affectionately as…
