DiPina made mark on RI golf history

(FOX Providence) - An African-American man born during the Great Depression is one of the best amateur golfers ever in Rhode Island.

George DiPina found some golf balls in Mulberry's Farm near Louisquisset Golf Course when he was 13 years old. It was there that the owner of Louisquisett allowed George and his brother to practice at the course as teenagers.

George DiPina was born in 1931. He was the middle child of five. He ended up having two children of his own.

George did win a lot during his career. He was the first black member at Lousquisett Country Club in 1950. He won the club championship there seven times. He was also the first black man to play in a Rhode Island Golf Association state tournament in 1952, and in 1971 he became the first African American to win a state tournament.

And at 80 years of age George DiPina is still swinging away, and collecting golf memorabilia.

George has been honored a couple of times by the Cape Verdien Hall of Fame and Museum. He will play in their annual golf tournament with his son, Gene, this summer.

If you want to check out the Cape Verdien Museum , it's located on Waterman Avenue in East Providence.

Its open on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday by appointment.