Former Player and PGA Broadcaster Mark Carnevale Dead at 64
The golf world was stunned by an unexpected death this week.
Mark Carnevale, a former PGA Tour player and broadcaster, has passed away.
Carnevale was only 64 years old.
Sad Day
There was no information as to the cause of Carnevale’s death in the announcement, so, unfortunately, we do not have much more information on that front.
After his death was announced, PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan announced, “He was a member of that elite club, a PGA Tour winner, and then he held numerous roles within the industry, most recently as a significant voice in PGA Tour Radio’s coverage.
“Mark knew the game and did a terrific job of conveying insights from his unique point of view — and with an engaging wit and sense of humor.”
Before he became a broadcaster, hopes were very high for him on the pro tour.
In 1992, during his rookie year, Mark won the Chattanooga Classic, which also led to him winning PGA Tour Rookie of the Year.
Sadly, that was pretty much the highlight of his career.
In 1994, at the GTE Byron Nelson Golf Classic, he went to a playoff but lost to Neal Lancaster on the first extra hole.
He did not fare very well in majors, missing the cut in each attempt at the Masters and PGA Championship and finishing tied for 33rd in 1994 and tied for 25th in 1998 at the U.S. Open.
After becoming eligible for the Champions Tour in 2010, he played a few events here and there, but broadcasting had become his bread and butter at that point.
His primary assignment was doing the Sirius XM PGA Tour Radio.
When you look over some of the previous rookie tour winners, it is rather astonishing that his career fizzled so quickly, but I think anyone who plays golf can relate to how quickly the game can leave us.
Rest in peace, Mark, and thanks for all the great memories.
