Ellen Simpson’s new book, “Tiger’s Twirl Girl,” reveals her extraordinary relationship with a young Tiger Woods.
Ms. Simpson was the Redondo Beach, California 1972 Majorette of the Year. After graduating from the Lon Chaney School of Cosmetology in 1974, she was unable to find employment as a makeup artist in the film industry.
“I was a great baton twirler and people were always asking me to show them how to twirl. So I thought, ‘Hmm, maybe there’s a business there,’ said Simpson.
“So in 1977, I opened The Whirly Twirly Studio on Torrance Blvd. In 1980, I got a call from Earl Woods. He told me that his son Tiger was going to be a champion golfer and needed to learn how to twirl a golf club after hitting a good shot.
“Up to that point, I had always worked with young girls. I asked Mr. Woods if Tiger would be willing to wear a skimpy outfit with white boots while learning baton twirling basics. Mr. Woods told me that IMG — whoever that is — wouldn’t be comfortable with Tiger in tights and a tiara. He also said that he wanted Tiger to have private lessons and to send my bills to Titleist.
“Tiger took to twirling like an otter takes to opening a sea urchin. It has given me great joy to have watched him twirl his club throughout his amazing career. In a very small way, I feel like I’ve contributed to his enduring legend,” says Simpson.
