Gus Andrews, an accomplished athlete and former coach, recently showcased his enduring talent at the Senior State Golf Games in North Carolina. Despite facing a challenging recovery period from a fall that left him with injuries to both knees and elbows, Andrews qualified for the state-level competition held at Tanglewood in Clemmons, where he delivered an impressive performance.
From Setbacks to Success
At 81 years old, Andrews approached the forecast of three consecutive rainy days not as a hindrance but as an opportunity. He humorously called out to his wife, Barbara Andrews, to inform her that it was the perfect time to get his flu shot, allowing him to recuperate without missing golf time. This anecdote illustrates his organized nature and determination, traits that have characterized his life since his youth.
Andrews grew up in Tarboro, North Carolina, excelling in multiple sports during the early 1960s. He was inducted into the Tarboro High Hall of Fame and later played football for NC State. His athletic career included notable moments, such as kicking six points after touchdowns in a game against Wake Forest and competing in the 1963 Liberty Bowl, a match remembered for its brutal cold.
Transitioning from player to coach, Andrews made significant contributions to the sport at various levels. He revitalized the football program at Salisbury High School after moving there in 1985, leading the team to a commendable 10-2 record in 1988. Additionally, he established the school’s swim program, which achieved a state championship under his leadership in 1995.
A Remarkable Performance
Despite his recent injuries, which kept him from leaving his home for over three weeks, Andrews managed to qualify for the Senior State Games. In the competition, he played 36 holes over two days on both courses at Tanglewood, demonstrating remarkable skill and composure. “I was just locked in, seeing everything, swinging pain-free,” he recalled. His final scores of 76 and 77, totaling 153, earned him victory in the 80 to 84 age group by an impressive margin of 14 strokes.
Andrews’ performance was likened to that of a champion racehorse, reminiscent of Secretariat’s legendary run. “I had a chance to shoot par when I had the 76, but I had a triple bogey on 17,” he noted, revealing both humility and competitive spirit. Remarkably, no other competitor in their 80s managed to score in the 70s during the event.
Having participated in the Senior State Games for several years, Andrews has consistently excelled through various age brackets. He aims to continue competing and plans to enter the 85 to 89 age group when he reaches that milestone. Achieving high rankings at the state level also opens the door to the national competitions known as the Senior Olympics, which take place every two years. Andrews has already participated in five editions, traveling to locations such as California, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
“You not only get to play on some great golf courses, you get to know people from all over the country,” he said, highlighting the camaraderie and enjoyment that come with the sport. For Andrews, who still identifies as an athlete despite his advancing age, golf remains a source of joy and a testament to his lifelong passion for sports.
