Ed Oliver Golf Club Announces Release of Seminal Biography on Ed “Porky” Oliver

(WILMINGTON, Del.) – Ed Oliver Golf Club – located on the original site of Wilmington Country Club and serving the local community for over a century – announces the release of seminal biography How He Played the Game: Ed "Porky" Oliver and Golf's Greatest Generation, written by award-winning author John Riley.

In partnership with Ed Oliver Golf Club, author John Riley will host a book signing event on Thursday, Dec. 2 from 5 – 8 p.m. at the course. The kick-off will benefit the First Tee of Delaware.

The biography explores how Ed Oliver rose from the caddie ranks to become one of the leading professional golfers in the world. After winning the prestigious Western Open, he was suddenly pulled into the U.S. Army with an early draft call and would be away from the game longer than any of his tour competitors. This book portrays more than Oliver’s story. It is a look into how many professionals returned home after serving and built the modern golf tour. They could be called, “Golf’s Greatest Generation.”

“It has been an honor to work with the Oliver family throughout this journey. From Snead and Hogan to Nelson and more, he faced many of the greatest who ever played the game,” says Riley. “For over twenty years, he was one of the most popular figures on tour, so I am humbled to share his story with anyone who appreciates golf.”

The book is now available for preorder on its website and will begin shipping early December, in time for the holidays.

Ed Oliver Golf Club was built on the old site of Wilmington Country Club, which opened in 1901. All that remains of the original design is a 100-year-old chimney located on the signature 18th hole. John Reid designed the first layout that was later recrafted twice, first by Alfred H. Tull, and later by Edmund B. Ault in 1971. The layout has essentially remained the same since and continues to be an asset for the Wilmington community.

“We are so proud of John Riley for bringing the story of Ed Oliver’s remarkable life to not only our community, but the entire golf world,” says Rob Polillo, general manager of Ed Oliver Golf Club. “Oliver portrayed an incredible level of perseverance and commitment to the game, and we look forward to continuing his legacy for years to come.”

More information: https://www.olivergolfbook.com/.