Marylanders Remember Legendary Golfer Arnold Palmer

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Known as "The King" of golf, Arnold Palmer died yesterday of a heart condition at the age of 87.

Arnold Palmer captivated the sports world with his style of play. He became the face of golf when TV expanded in the 50's and turned the country club game, mainstream.

At MedStar Union Memorial, news of his passing is difficult, as the Sports Health Center bears his name.

Palmer, who was treated at MedStar Union Memorial, lent his name and helped build the facility.

"I am very pleased and proud to have this relationship ongoing, and look forward to seeing the good things that would happen in this relationship," said Palmer at a press conference.

"He wanted it small, he said 'I want it when  people come in, they want a 'wow' effect,' it's not a stereotypical hospital-type facility,'" said Lew Lyon, PhD, Vice President of MedStar Sports Medicine.

Arnold Palmer SportsHealth Center for Sports Injuries has treated countless athletes since it's opening in 2006.

Palmer was born in Latrobe and lived in Pittsburgh, but spent quite a bit of time in Baltimore, and even playing the US Senior Open at Caves Valley in 2002.

"People today know him for his Arnold Palmer iced tea that you can see in every grocery store," said Lyon.

"He didn't  know if he wanted an iced tea or a lemonade, so he said to the bartender, 'I don't know what I want, make it half and half," recalls Lyon.

However he'll be remembered, he will certainly be missed.

"He was a friend to many, to millions of people across the world. An approachable icon," said Lyon.

Palmer won seven major titles, including four Masters, tallying 62 PGA Tour wins. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2004.

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