Fred Ridley named USGA president

FAR HILLS, N.J., Feb. 7 (UPI) -- Attorney Fred Ridley, a former collegiate golfer and the 1975 U.S. Amateur champion, was elected president of the USGA on Saturday.

Ridley, 51, was elected at the USGA's annual meeting in Orlando. He will lead the organization's professional staff and 1,400 volunteers.

Ridley is a partner in the Tampa law firm of Foley & Lardner, which now can boast two USGA presidents. The late Lynford Lardner held the position in 1972-73.

Reed McKenzie, who had been on the USGA Executive Committee since 1992, retired as president.

Ridley played in 15 USGA championships, including 10 U.S. Amateurs.