Tributes abound this week at Bay Hill as the golf world gathers to celebrate the life of Arnold Palmer.
One of the more notable of those tributes is the custom PUMA Ignite Hi-Tops being worn this week by Rickie Fowler.
The tribute shoes were designed by Dominic Chambrone who some may know as the Shoe Surgeon. Only two pairs were created. Rickie will wear the first pair this week. The second pair, which has been autographed by Fowler, will be auctioned off with all proceeds going to the Arnie’s Army Charitable Foundation.
“I feel privileged to have known Arnie and be able to call him a friend. I wanted to do something to celebrate what he did on the course and more importantly how he used his platform to benefit others through his Foundation,” said Fowler. “He is the King after all!!”
The design itself features a high-grade infused graphic printed directly into the leather. Each piece was handcut to fit the spec of the shoe. Other key features include:
- The Velcro strap is laser engraved with Palmer’s signature.
- Behind the tongue of the left shoe is the iconic umbrella logo that has become synonymous with Arnold’s brands.
- Behind the tongue of the right shoe includes a quote from Fowler in remembrance of The King. It reads:
Legends never die. You will live on forever Arnie. I will never forget the bear hug in front of the clubhouse at Augusta, watching you hit your final tee shot there, and to spending time with you in the locker room at Bay Hill. Thank you for being you and giving me the opportunity to do what I get to do everyday! I love you as did everyone! RIP The King.
The shoes will arrive in a custom wood engraved box featuring Arnie’s signature. The shoes are size 9, but I suspect that won’t matter to the eventual winner of the auction.
The auction runs today (Wednesday 3/15/17) through Sunday (3/19/17). You can bid here.
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