When I was in third grade, my dad took me out to play golf for the first time at a public course just a short drive from our Portsmouth home.
I remember hitting the ball over the water on a par three and immediately getting hooked. I doubt that I demonstrated any special or unique talent, but that wasn’t the point.
I was having a blast and being introduced to a sport that has made such a positive impact on my life. If you would have told 9-year-old Jared that he would go on to work for the PGA TOUR and oversee THE PLAYERS Championship, our organization’s flagship event, he wouldn’t have believed you.
Nearly 40 years later, I still have a lot of work to do in shaving strokes off my score, but I am so grateful for everything the game of golf has given me, personally and professionally, not to mention the skills and values I’ve developed from playing it.
During the month of August, we celebrate National Golf Month, an observance that promotes golf as a sport that has something for everyone, no matter your skill level.
The PGA TOUR, in partnership with other industry organizations, recently launched an industry-wide initiative called “Make Golf Your Thing,” a movement that seeks to inspire and invite people from all backgrounds to experience the sport of golf in their own way. Whether choosing to host a putting contest with friends in your backyard, hit balls at a driving range, or play in a tournament or at a sports entertainment facility, there’s no right or wrong way to engage with our sport.
I just encourage you to give golf a try. Share with us how you choose to celebrate National Golf Month.
Like me,
I am sure you will soon #MakeGolfYourThing.
