The Arnold Palmer Invitational doesn’t officially start until Monday, but the festivities have already begun to honor the legendary host who passed away last September at age 87.
A 14-foot tall, 1,400-pound bronze statue of the King was unveiled Saturday during a ceremony at the Bay Hill Club and Lodge. The statue is located behind the first tee and is similar to the one at Wake Forest, Palmer’s alma mater, in Winston-Salem, N.C.
A statue as permanent as his legacy in the game. #ArniesArmy ⛱ pic.twitter.com/PmjLc0VeCG
— Golf Channel (@GolfChannel) March 11, 2017
The Florida Senate also voted unanimously last week to name a section of State Road 408 in Orlando the Arnold Palmer Expressway. And on Wednesday, the public will be able to pay tribute to Palmer during a ceremony at Bay Hill. Palmer’s golf cart is also expected to be placed behind the 16th tee, his favorite spot to watch the tournament.