"Phil Mickelson, The People's Champion" to air Saturday on CBS

 

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla -- Golf is often called a gentleman's game and perhaps no player embodies that spirit more than 29-time PGA TOUR winner Phil Mickelson. While he resides in the upper level of golf's competitive stratosphere, Mickelson remains grounded through his strong family values and has won the adoration of fans through his charisma, sportsmanship and passion for the game.

"Phil Mickelson: The People's Champion" is a one-hour special airing Saturday, August 12 at 1:30 p.m. ET on CBS Sports, honoring one of the PGA TOUR's most celebrated players and introduce viewers to influential people behind his career. From his early days as a toddler on the links in Southern California to his most recent win at the 2006 Masters Tournament, "Phil Mickelson: The People's Champion" will chronicle Mickelson's rise to the top of the golf world.

Mickelson himself credits the personal and professional support network behind him for his success. Topping the list are Mickelson's parents, Phil Sr. and Mary, who introduced him to the game when he was just 18 months old and have remained his No. 1 fans ever since. "Phil Mickelson: The People's Champion" will chat with the golf star's family and friends as they tell stories and show video clips of a young Mickelson learning the game.

While life on the road can be demanding, Mickelson has found balance in wife Amy and their three young children. Known for their dedication to family and generosity, the Mickelsons established The Phil and Amy Mickelson Charitable Gift Fund to help families and others in need. The special honors their charitable contributions and takes looks at the organizations their foundation will support in 2006.

Attaining Mickelson's level of success on the course requires constant practice -- but enlisting the help of a few good men doesn't hurt, either. Join Mickelson on the range as he trains with noted instructors Rick Smith and Dave Pelz. Viewers also will meet Mickelson's current manager and former Arizona State golf coach, Steve Loy, as he offers a candid, first-hand account of Mickelson's progression from college freshman to two-time Masters champion.

Amid the electrified atmosphere generated by his loyal New York fans, " Phil Mickelson: The People's Champion" also documents Mickelson's quest for a fourth major championship victory at the 2006 U.S. Open Championship at Winged Foot.

Learn more about this popular PGA TOUR champion in "Phil Mickelson: The People's Champion" on Saturday, August 12th at 1:30 p.m. ET on CBS.

• Watch a video preview of the show.