Chris T. Sullivan

 

Inducted in 2010

A former caddie, Chris T. Sullivan went on to help found Outback Steakhouse and has continued to advocate on behalf of caddies and their role in the game of golf.

Chris T. Sullivan was introduced to the game by his father at a young age and began caddying at a country club near his family’s home in Silver Spring, MD, when he was 12. Sullivan attended the University of Kentucky and entered the management-training program for Steak and Ale Restaurants, founded by his mentor Norman Brinker. Sullivan followed Norman Brinker to Chili’s restaurants in 1983 as a joint venture partner and franchisee. Sullivan, along with his partners, opened 17 restaurants in three years. In March 1988, Sullivan, along with partners Bob Basham and Tim Gannon, opened the first Outback Steakhouse in Tampa, FL. As of 2017, there were more than 1,000 Outback Steakhouses worldwide. Outback also operates more than 300 Carrabba’s Italian Grills, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar, Roy’s, Lee Roy Selmon’s, Bonefish Grill, Cheeseburger in Paradise, Paul Lee’s Chinese Kitchen and several other hospitality businesses. Sullivan went on to help create Old Memorial Golf Club near Tampa, where he continues to support caddies and caddy programs.

For his work promoting the important role of caddies in the game of golf, Chris T. Sullivan earned a place in the Caddie Hall of Fame, which recognizes individuals who support caddying.