When Ken Bentley and his friend Adrian Stills founded the APGA Tour 15 years ago, their goal was to increase diversity in the sport they love. Since then, the APGA has made remarkable progress. The prize and bonus money has grown from $40,000 to over $1.3 million, and their 18 tournaments are now held at iconic golf courses like Torrey Pines, Spyglass at Pebble Beach, and TPC Sawgrass. The inspiring stories of APGA players have been shared by media outlets across the country. Current members of the APGA have also participated in over 40 PGA TOUR and Korn Ferry events. Equally important, through the APGA’s youth programs, the game has been introduced to over 2,000 young people.
Despite these advancements, Bentley recognizes “that there is still much work to be done.” To continue this mission, he is asking friends, family, and supporters to donate to the Advocates Foundation (advocatesfoundation.org) for his birthday on September 24th. His goal is to raise $75,000, with Bentley and his wife already pledging $10,000 toward the campaign.
“Join me in celebrating Ken’s birthday by supporting the Advocates Foundation. Together, we can help the Foundation continue fostering healthy and sustainable values for youth across the nation,” said Debert Cook, publisher of the African American Golfer’s Digest. The funds raised will be directed to providing resources for collegiate and junior programs. If the fundraising goal is met or surpassed, the APGA will be able to offer much-needed support to young golfers pursuing their dreams of reaching the PGA TOUR.
Although Bentley has transitioned from CEO to Chairman of the APGA and Advocates Foundation Board, his commitment to the organization remains strong. At a junior event this spring, an African American father approached him, expressing how his 12-year-old son dreamed of earning a college golf scholarship and playing on the APGA Tour en route to the PGA TOUR. With heroes like APGA stars Kevin Hall, Chase Johnson, and Andrew Walker, the young golfer looked to the APGA for inspiration. Bentley promised the father that the APGA would continue to grow and be there when his son was ready. With the help of supporters, Bentley aims to make that dream—and the dreams of many others—a reality. Contributions are being accepted online HERE.
