Gregary Darren Price knows a little bit about staying focused on one’s goal in spite of being surrounded by naysayers. Growing up in Baltimore, Maryland, Gregary keenly recalls a time that he will never forget, when he did not have enough money to pay for college and could not get a scholarship. But even without a college degree this studious gentleman has carved out a productive career and lifestyle that many can envy.
“I was introduce to golf by my father in 1997, when Tiger Woods was at the beginning of his career.” says the 30-year-old. “I quit the game and played other sports until I was about age 13 year, then I never played another sport competitively again.”
Today, the Severn, Maryland resident works at GOLFTEC in Ellicott City, Maryland, and is a PGA Certified Personal Golf Instructor and Coach. Before that, he was selling golf clubs at 2nd Swing Golf Store.
The unmarried bachelor with no kids has plenty of time to keep improving on his game and plays at a 7.9 handicap. Sharing a somewhat “funny” story of several months ago, Gregary reveals, “This past April my 3-year relationship ended and, within seconds I received an email offer to work at GOLFTEC! ….when one door closes, another opens,” he declares.
“I mostly play golf with my father my best friend Christian Andersen of 15-years, and another coach that I went to college with, Anthony Long.
“I stay inspired by golf just by waking up and coming to work everyday. I was never one for getting up early except for golf so, work is like a tee time and when I get there, to be able to help someone who can not hit the ball straight, let alone hitting the ball at the beginning of their lesson.”
When instructing customers on the range or golf course who cannot hit a draw, or cut on command, Gregary says that watching their overall improvement is what keeps him inspired. “…by the end of the lesson, this just gives me a sense of accomplishment and confirms that I chose the right career path.”
“Because, I had a lot of people rooting against me—actually more than those who were rooting for me.” Yet, he refused to be discouraged and keep his eye on the big picture, moving forward towards reaching his career goals.
BIGGEST CHALLENGE
“My biggest challenge in the game of golf is realizing that are not enough African Americans playing at a higher level in this sport. I’m trying to change that.”
One thing people would be surprised to know about Gregary is that even thought he is not a member of any golf clubs he has had the pleasure of obtaining two hole-in-ones. “One was made on a par 3 when I was just 17-years-old. The other occurred this year on June 26, on a par 4.”
With a busy work schedule Gregary regrets that he has not been able to participate in a lot of tournaments. The former bartender was previously able to keep odd working hours—especially on the weekends—which freed him up to enjoy more time out on the course.
“Of my golfing skills, I am most proud on my iron play and how I can work the ball either way, having the ability to scramble from anywhere. And my wedge work having a good touch around the green.”
When Gregary was a much younger player, it was one of his friends, Garrett Harding, who helped him to develop his game. There were also a lot of Gregary’s friends and family who kept him inspired, like him mom for instance. “She is also one of the reasons I never gave up on my dreams; she was, and still is, always there to help keep pushing me forward. She always said, ‘believe in god and believe in yourself, anything is possible.'”
Replete with years of knowledge and patience Gregary has been able to help hundreds of new and seasoned players enjoy their participation in game. “I want to get more African Americans in the game of golf. By getting more of my friends and family involved I can get the word spread a little faster.”
When this devoted golfer is not playing a round, on the driving range or practicing putting, he can usually be found listening to music and hanging out with friends, “many whom I has known my whole life,” says the lover of culinary arts. “If I didn’t play golf that would have been my fallback plan.”
To keep up with Gregary follow him on Facebook at Greg G Dub Price
For lessons call him at 410-869-6901.
