Today we’d like to introduce you to SKYE SUSALLA.
Hi SKYE, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Growing up in the Coachella Valley, the daughter of a golf professional it seemed only natural to pursue a career in sports. Little did I know that my love for photography and sports would converge, leading me to become one of the very first female sports photographers in the early 1970’s. Covering the west coast PGA golf tour as well as many other events world wide. I worked for various magazines and TV networks, which opened doors to other sports as well. It was during this time that fate intervened, introducing me to billionaire businessman Kerry Packer of Australia. His offer to cover sports for his company, Australian Consolidated Press took me on an exhilarating journey-one that would forever change my life.
I was at Ironwood CC in Palm DesertCa, as a guest of Mark McCormack who was the CEO of IMG, International Management Group. Mark had been a friend of Arnold Palmer from the very early days, being an entrepreneur, lawyer and lover of the golf world, it was Mark who first signed : Palmer, Nicklaus and Gary Player to be represented by his company IMG. That was the beginning of some incredible sponsorship in golf’s history; being at the right place and the right time is how I met KP.
World Series Cricket, a brainchild of Packer’s, became my new beat. As an American female photographer traveling with the teams as their official photographer i was often asked for my autograph which seemed to amuse the players to no end, especially if they had to sign a bat under my name! The camaraderie, the thrill of capturing iconic moments, and the sheer adventure of it all made those years unforgettable.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Of course, the road wasn’t always smooth. Harassment from some men in power was a constant, but I treated it as a power play. Common sense and resilience kept me focused on my passion.
Meeting legends like Muhammad Ali, Arnold Palmer and Mickey Mantel was surreal. Their class and sportsmanship left a lasting impression. From major golf championships to raucous night games at the Sydney Cricket Ground, I was blessed to witness history unfold.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I would have to say my life as a sports photographer is definitely the highlight of my professional life.
In 1987, I stepped back from the fast-paced life to focus on family. Being a proud Mum to sons, Brett and Scotte, while living in Australia is a testament to what matters most in life.
Completely creative and fun, I am working on a line of clothes, to be called “Hot Aussie Tees” to continue my love with Australia even though I’m back in Southern California.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
As well as my tee-line, I’m working on a book-a tribute to my dads contributions to the golf world.. His career spanned from a young age-and his contributions such as inventing the first golf cart while an assistant pro at Thunderbird Country Club. Life in Palm Springs and Palm Desert during the 1950’s was incredible. Through this book, I hope to highlight his journey, enriched by golf and his many friends from Arnold Palmer to President Eisenhower.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: SkyeLifeSailFree
- Other: Vintage Golf Shoppe on Etsy
- HOTAUSSIETEES
Image Credits
Skye Susalla, Photography Photo collection : Skye Susalla and Sons.
