FAR HILLS, N.J. (AP) -- Former President Bush has been chosen to receive the Bob Jones Award from the USGA, the golf organization's highest honor. The award is for distinguished sportsmanship in golf, and recognizes a person who emulates the golf attitude and spirit of amateur great Bobby Jones.

"I'm very flattered to receive this award," Bush said in a statement. "Golf has meant a lot to me. It means friendship, integrity and character. I grew up in a family that was lucky enough to have golf at the heart of it for a while. My father was a scratch player and my mother also was a good golfer. It's a very special game."

Bush's grandfather, George Herbert Walker, was president of the USGA in 1920 and inspired the Walker Cup, biennial matches for amateurs between the United States and a team from Britain and Ireland. His father, Prescott Bush, was USGA president in 1935 and helped establish the USGA Museum and Archives.

It was only the second time the award was given to a nongolfer. The USGA recognized Bing Crosby and Bob Hope in 1978.

Bush will be honored Feb. 9 at the USGA's annual meeting in Houston.