Volunteer Registration for the JM Eagle LA Championship is now open. Each year, hundreds of volunteers donate their time to serve critical needs such as marshaling, transportation, hospitality services and many other important roles. The JM Eagle LA Championship is seeking more thanĀ 500Ā volunteers to fill a variety of roles tournament week. The $65 package includes one official tournament branded golf shirt; choice of a hat or visor; volunteer pin; one volunteer badge allowing clubhouse access and free parking all week; 4 daily grounds tickets; and complimentary light breakfast and lunch for each day worked. Those interested can register HERE.
Black Girls Golf introduces the Learn. Practice. Play. Beginner Clinic, a comprehensive program tailored for individuals stepping into the world of golf. Priced at a single fee of $350, participants gain access to invaluable hands-on instruction from certified coaches, three rounds of golf, complimentary range balls, and the opportunity to join the esteemed Black Girls Golf sisterhood.
Scheduled for 90 minutes every Saturday from April 6 to April 20, 2024, this clinic requires no prior golfing experience or equipment. Participants are encouraged to seize this opportunity as a gateway to the sport, promising not only skill enhancement but also the cultivation of confidence essential for navigating the course.
Additionally, each participant will receive a complimentary gift, available while supplies last, adding an extra layer of value to the program. However, commitment to the entire session is paramount for optimal learning outcomes, as refunds or makeup sessions for missed classes will not be accommodated.
Setting itself apart, Black Girls Golf ensures smaller class sizes to foster a personalized learning environment, coupled with a dedicated focus on teaching fundamental techniques. What’s more, participants can anticipate practical experience on the course each week, providing a holistic learning approach.
Enrollment is currently open, with class sizes capped at 12 students. Established in 2013 by Tiffany Fitzgerald, Black Girls Golf is driven by the mission to establish a nurturing environment for women and girls of all skill levels to learn and enjoy golf. For further details and registration, interested individuals are encouraged to visit BlackGirlsGolf.net.
LeBron James and Drake Join Forces For a Significant PGA Tour Investment
Earlier this year, the PGA Tour forged a partnership with Strategic Sports Group (SSG), a collective of sports proprietors spearheaded by Fenway Sports Group (FSG). SSG pledged a $1.5 billion injection into the golfing circuit, with an additional $1.5 billion pending. LeBron James, unlike his NBA compatriots Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell, or luminaries such as Michael Jordan and Stephen Curry, isn’t known for his prowess on the golf course. However, James holds equity in FSG, which commands interests in major sports entities such as the Boston Red Sox, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Liverpool FC.
According to the NYT’s DealBook, “James and Drake are committing further capital as ‘strategic investors’ and are anticipated to leverage their marketing influence to expand the tour’s reach.”FSG has also ventured into TMRW Sports, a forthcoming golf and entertainment endeavor (affiliated with the PGA Tour) developed by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.”Golf holds sentimental value for me. Some of my fondest childhood memories were spent on the golf course with my uncle,” stated Drake to NYT’s DealBook.
“It’s one thing to invest in a team, but to contribute to the transformation of one of the world’s premier leagues is an extraordinary opportunity, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.” (LeBron declined to comment.) As Tiger discussed prior to the Genesis Invitational, the PGA Tour anticipates that the SSG investment, alongside additional private equity funding, will facilitate its evolution without reliance on Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which currently oversees the LIV Golf League.
Talks between PIF and the PGA Tour are ongoing but at a standstill.”Ultimately, we aspire to integrate PIF into our tour and our offerings,” stated Tiger in February. “Currently, we lack the financial means to do so, and the resources initially proposed in the framework agreement remain unchanged. Anything beyond this would naturally be additional. We are in a position where we hope to enhance our product both in the short and long term.”
Althea Gibson’s Impact on Tennis and Golf: First African American Woman To Participate in LPGA

Althea Gibson (1927ā2003) made history as the initial African American to triumph in a Grand Slam tennis event, securing the singles title at the French Championships (now known as the French Open) in 1957. Throughout her career, she claimed five Grand Slam singles titles. In 1967, she broke barriers once more by becoming the first African American woman to participate in the Ladies Professional Golf Association tour. Even after retiring from competition, Gibson continued to blaze trails, serving as the nation’s inaugural female state athletic commissioner in 1976.
In addition to her individual achievements, Gibson contributed to team victories. In 1957, she shared in the U.S. women’s team triumph at the Wightman Cup against the United Kingdom, earning the prestigious medal. Known for her participation in government-sponsored goodwill tours, Gibson was also honored with a medal during her visit to Pakistan.
Despite her remarkable achievements on the tennis court, financial struggles plagued her existence. Tennis remained an amateur sport during her era, leaving Gibson reliant on the goodwill of family, friends, and supporters to sustain herself. To augment her income, she embarked on a tour with the Harlem Globetrotters, showcasing her tennis skills before their games. Despite a brief stint with singing, including appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show and a role in the movie “The Horse Soldiers” alongside John Wayne, Gibson’s foray into music failed to yield financial stability.
In 1960, at the age of 36, Gibson pivoted to golf, a sport she had casually explored during her time at Florida A&M University. In her autobiography, “So Much to Live For,” she described the allure of golf as gradually overpowering, leading her to make history once more by earning entry into the LPGA Tour.
Renowned for her powerful drives and low ball flight, Gibson broke course records and achieved moderate success on the LPGA Tour. However, financial security remained elusive, with sponsorship deals and the support of her husband serving as her main sources of income. Despite her athletic prowess, Gibson confronted racial discrimination, particularly in the segregated South, where some clubs barred her from entering their premises during tournaments.
Despite her fame, Gibson was not shielded from the harsh realities of racism during her professional golfing career. The 1960s were marked by turbulence, with certain clubs, particularly in the South, refusing to accept her. One poignant incident occurred in 1965 at the Babe Zaharias Classic tournament held at the Beaumont Country Club, where Gibson was permitted to play on the course but barred from entering the clubhouse, even for basic amenities such as using the bathroom, compelling her to change in her car.
Lenny Wirtz, serving as the tournament director for the LPGA during the 1960s, played a crucial role in advocating for inclusivity within the tour. When host golf courses attempted to exclude black players by converting “open” tournaments into “invitationals,” Wirtz took a firm stance, declaring, ‘We all play, or we all stay away.’ His steadfast advocacy garnered unanimous support from LPGA members, who resolved that if a sponsor or club failed to accept all players, they would boycott the event. This united front demonstrated solidarity among LPGA players in support of their fellow athlete of color.
Despite these efforts, maintaining a presence on the tour proved financially burdensome for Gibson. After a 13-year career, she ultimately transitioned to a position as a tennis professional near her home in New Jersey. Over time, she withdrew from public life, grappling with ongoing financial and health challenges. Tragically, after years of adversity, Althea Gibson passed away in 2003 due to respiratory failure.

GREENSBORO, NC (February 21, 2024) āĀ Upwards of 800 Carolinas PGA Professionals and Associates attended the 2024 Carolinas PGA Super Show presented by GolfStatus. The show was held at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex on Monday, February 19th and Tuesday, February 20th and included the Sectionās annual meeting, merchandise show, and various educational seminars.Ā
The event was preceded by the Special Awards and Honors Dinner presented by Club Car on Sunday evening where fourteen Carolinas PGA Professionals were recognized for their contributions to the game including District 10 Director Paige Cribb, PGA as the 2023 Golf Professional of the Year. The Carolinas PGA inducted two individuals in the Hall of Fame, Cary Corbitt, PGA from The Sea Pines Resort and Bill Lytton, PGA from Benvenue Country Club who was elected posthumously.Ā

The CPGA Annual Meeting presented by GolfProPayments took place on Monday morning. An election for the 2024-2025 Officers and Tournament Chairperson was held where the following Carolinas PGA Professionals were elected into office: Josh Wagaman, President; Jeff Avant, Vice President; Ben Bridgers, Secretary; and Luke Lovell, Tournament Chairperson. Tom VanHoogen was also sworn in as Grand Strand Chapter Director.Ā
PGA of America Vice President Don Rea, PGA and Chief Membership Officer John Easterbrook, PGA joined Honorary President Chris Byrd, PGA and District 10 Director Paige Cribb for a town hall forum to address questions from the membership. It was also announced that Jeff Abbot would be promoted to the position of CEO/Executive Director of the Carolinas PGA. Byrd informed the membership that the PGA of America REACH Foundation awarded a $250,000 Places to Play Grant to Gillespie Golf Course, more information about this grant and its impact can be foundĀ here.
The newly created PGA REACH Carolinas Assistant of the Year Award and the PGA REACH Carolinas Retired Professional of the Year Award were presented as well where the following CPGA Assistant Professionals were recognized for their contributions to PGA REACH: 1st Place, Daniel Byrd (Tanglewood Park); 2nd Place, Donald Hepp (Hackler Golf GC); 3rd Place Cynthia Graham (Dunes Golf & Beach Club) and the following CPGA Retired Professionals were recognized for their contributions to PGA REACH: 1st Place, Tom Rader; 2nd Place Roger Mack; and 3rd Place Brian Oliver.Ā
The Carolinas PGA sold out the Merchandise Show with 213 booths showcasing over 150 vendors. A cash jackpot prize was drawn at the conclusion of each day of the Merchandise Show where Andy Kohn, PGA won the day one drawing of $1,500, and Jeff Swangim, PGA, Robert Starkey, PGA, and Matt Zvanut, PGA won the day two drawings of $1,000. The grand prize drawing of $3,000 and the domestic trip for two courtesy of CPGA Partner Signature Golf was awarded to Seth Wilson, PGA from The Club at Longview.Ā

CBS and Sirius XM Radio personality Michael Breed, PGA was featured as the keynote speaker for Monday evening where he encouraged the attendees to be their absolute best in every aspect of their personal and professional lives. Jason Mills, PGA, Director of Golf at Carmel Country Club and PGA of America Rules Committee member, led the Tuesday morning education session where he gave helpful tips and updates regarding the USGA rules of golf. The show concluded with the Winter Teaching Summit presented by Foresight Sports and GolfForever. Speakers included 2023 Carolinas PGA Palmer Maples Teacher of the Year Kevin Britt, PGA from The Carolina Country Club, GolfForever Swing Trainer Co-Creator and Physical Therapist Pete Holman, and Founder/Owner at Kay Performance Physio and Consulting Dr. Mike Kay who shared their expertise.
Thank you to section partners GolfStatus, Club Car, GolfProPayments, Signature Golf, Foresight Sports, GolfForever, Par4Success, and Greensboro Convention & Visitors Bureau for making the 2024 Super Show one of the best ones yet!
The Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond Driver by Callaway introduces a groundbreaking design aimed at enhancing forgiveness and adjustability. With adjustable perimeter weighting, it can correct shot shapes by up to 19 yards. This driver features the Ai Smart Face, Callaway’s most advanced driver face yet, crafted using real player data and advanced machine learning to distribute sweet spots across the face.
Designed with a neutral-to-fade biased face progression and a compact head size, the Triple Diamond model is tailored for skilled players seeking precision off the tee. Available for both left and right-handed players, the driver starts at $599 and can be purchased from Callaway’s website callawaygolf.com
The Standard Issue binoculars by NOCS Provisions offer top-tier optics encased in a compact, rugged housing, making them perfect for travel and adventurous outings. Their vibrant colors not only prevent misplacement but also add a stylish touch. With an IPX7 waterproof rating and nitrogen-sealed fog-proof construction, they can withstand various environmental conditions.
Featuring fully multi-coated lenses and BaK4 roof prisms, these binoculars deliver a wide field of view and exceptional clarity. The robust housing is designed to absorb impact and resist scratches, ensuring durability in the face of rugged terrain. The twist-up eyecups accommodate users wearing glasses, enhancing comfort and usability.
Crafted with Swiss optical engineering, the Standard Issue binoculars boast six layers of anti-reflective coating on each glass surface, resulting in a vivid, sharp image with edge-to-edge color clarity. Backed by a “No-Matter-What Lifetime Warranty,” these binoculars are a reliable companion for any adventure.
Priced at $95, and available in several enticing colors, they offer best-in-class optics and are available for purchase on the Nocs Provisions website. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a nature enthusiast, these binoculars promise to enhance your viewing experience and bring you closer to the wonders of the world around you. Available at https://www.nocsprovisions.com
In “Calvin Peete: Golf’s Forgotten Star” by Gordon Hobson, the remarkable journey of one of golf’s most overlooked figures is finally brought to light. Peete’s rise from humble beginnings as the child of migrant laborers to becoming one of the best Black golfers in history is a tale of perseverance, dedication, and undeniable talent.
Hobson’s biography paints a vivid picture of Peete’s unconventional path to success. From dropping out of school at an early age to working in the fields, Peete’s introduction to golf came later in life than most. Yet, through sheer determination and countless hours of practice in public parks, he honed his skills and developed one of the most accurate swings in golfing history.
What sets Peete apart even further is his unique presence on the PGA Tour. Standing out not only for his exceptional playing ability but also for his distinct appearance ā sporting a notable Fu Manchu, cowboy boots, and even diamonds in his teeth ā Peete challenged the stereotypes of what a professional golfer should look like.
Hobson delves into the challenges Peete faced as a Black golfer in a predominantly white sport, even after the removal of discriminatory clauses from the PGA’s bylaws. Despite winning twelve championships, representing the US in the Ryder Cup, and earning the prestigious Vardon Award, Peete’s journey was marked by years of struggle and adversity.
“Calvin Peete: Golf’s Forgotten Star” is not just a biography; it’s a testament to the power of resilience and hard work in the face of adversity. Peete’s story serves as an inspiration, reminding readers that success is attainable for those willing to put in the effort, regardless of the obstacles they may encounter.
With its engaging narrative and insightful exploration of Peete’s life and career, Hobson’s book is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and anyone seeking inspiration from an unsung hero. Available on Amazon in all formats.
Renee Powell’s contributions to the world of golf, as well as her pioneering role as the second Black woman to join the LPGA, are truly commendable. It’s great to see her being honored during halftime at the NBA game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Orlando Magic. Renee is the LPGA/PGA Head Golf Professional at her family’s historicĀ Clearview Golf ClubĀ in East Canton, Ohio, thus, this recognition not only celebrates her achievements but also highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in sports. Powell shared her enthusiasm in a Facebook post:
“I was very honored to be recognized Feb. 22 at halftime duringl the Cleveland Cavaliers game against the Orlando Magic.” ā Renee Powell
The Clearview Golf Club was the first golf course in the United States to be built, owned, and operated by an African American. The club was started in 1946, with Renee’s father, Bill Powell, purchasing the land and working on it in his spare time. It opened to the public and to all races in April 1948. Renee carries on the legacy of her father Bill Powell who passed away on Dcember 31, 2009 at 93 years of age.
LIBERTY CORNER, N.J. (March 2, 2024) ā The United States Golf Association has selected Tiger Woods as the recipient of this yearās Bob Jones Award, the USGAās highest honor, in recognition of his commitment to sportsmanship and respect for golfās time-honored traditions.
Woods, a 15-time major champion and nine-time USGA champion, has redefined the game of golf in the modern era, overcoming physical and personal challenges by displaying the characteristics of tenacity, mental strength and perseverance.
āThis award goes beyond playing performance, recognizing the lasting impact of one personās journey that has forever changed the image and growth of golf,ā said Mike Whan, CEO of the USGA. āThere are very few who stand alongside Tiger Woods in terms of on-course accomplishments, and he is in a class of his own when it comes to the impact he has made on the game and future generations who will play it.ā
His journey, from junior phenomenon to young star, achiever to ambassador, player to mentor and golf innovator to entrepreneur, is marked by a rich and deep story defined not just by trophies, but by triumphing over near-impossible obstacles and emerging stronger beyond them. Always rising to the occasion, Woods continues to play the game without compromising his drive or his respect for it.
His dedication to fair play and longstanding commitment to excellence are among the traits embodied by the awardās namesake, Robert Tyre Jones Jr., one of golfās greats, a fellow nine-time USGA champion and one of the most respected players in the gameās history.
āBob Jones was a pillar of our game because of the integrity with which he played it, and Iām truly humbled to receive the award that bears his name and join the many who have received it before me who continue his legacy,ā said Woods. āItās especially fitting to receive this honor from the USGA, which has meant so much to my career and the entire game of golf.ā
Woodsā charitable endeavors and significant impact off the golf course are integral to his living legacy. Founded in 1996 with his father, Earl, the TGR Foundation provides opportunities to help change the trajectories of studentsā lives through access to college- and career-preparation resources, along with STEM-based experiential learning via the TGR Learning Lab.
A transcendent talent and one of the most accomplished players in history, Woods is credited with inspiring a generation of golfers to take up the game through his decades of dominance at every level of the sport. His nine USGA titles, matched only by Jones, include three consecutive U.S. Junior Amateurs (1991-1993), followed by three straight U.S. Amateurs (1994-1996) and an overall USGA match-play record of 42-3. His record 15-stroke victory at Pebble Beach in the 2000 U.S. Open and his captivating playoff win on a broken leg at Torrey Pines to claim the 2008 U.S. Open are among the most memorable performances in the championshipās history.
āThroughout his playing career and along with his incredible work outside the ropes, Tiger Woods has quite literally changed the game, and he has done it while embodying the characteristics recognized by this award and shared by others who have received it,ā said Fred Perpall, USGA president. āHis impact on the game is incalculable, and there is no doubt that golf would not be the same without Tiger in it.ā
Past recipients of the Bob Jones Award include Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Ben Hogan, Mickey Wright, Francis Ouimet, Byron Nelson, Nancy Lopez, President George H.W. Bush, Patty Berg and Annika Sorenstam.
Woods will be recognized on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at a ceremony in the Village of Pinehurst during the week of the U.S. Open Championship.
“Charlie Woods, 15-year-old son of golf legend Tiger Woods, stumbled in a PGA Tour pre-qualifier on Thursday, February 23, enduring a tumultuous journey marked by a 12-stroke mishap on a par-4, numerous double bogeys, and a disconcerting display of fan behavior that drew widespread criticism for its intrusive nature. Despite his efforts, Woods fell short of securing a berth in his maiden PGA Tour event, the Cognizant Classic in the Palm Beaches of Florida, managing a disappointing 16-over 86.
The focus swiftly shifted from Woods’ performance to the treatment he received on the course, where he found himself shadowed by fans exhibiting peculiar conduct. Reports from the Palm Beach Post highlighted instances of fans scrambling for out-of-bounds balls as mementos, disregarding officials’ directives by closely tailing Woods along the fairway, and even making audacious demands such as requesting autographs on copies of ‘How I Play Golf’ by Tiger Woods.
Accompanied by his friend and caddie J.J. Kutner, along with Olin Browne Jr., a mini-tour professional and son of Olin Browne, Woods encountered a challenging debut in PGA Tour pre-qualifiers. Despite his strong handicap index of +3 with the Florida State Golf Association, this was a new frontier for the young prodigy, who has previously showcased his talent alongside his father in various competitions, including the Notah Begay III Junior Golf National Championship and the PNC Championships.
Looking ahead, Woods remains a force to be reckoned with in junior golf circles, boasting a No. 1,301 ranking on the Junior Golf Scoreboard and actively participating in events such as the Junior PGA Championship and Nicklaus Junior Championship. As he continues to hone his skills, eyes will be on him as he defends his school’s state championship with the Benjamin School’s golf team and competes in other prestigious tournaments like the SFPGA Junior Cup and SFPGA Labor Day Classic. Despite the setbacks encountered, the journey of this young golfing sensation is one to watch closely, as he navigates the competitive world of professional golf with unwavering determination and potential.”
Transform Your Game With 90-Day Virtual Group Golf Training Program Presented by Golf Women Mean Business
The Golf Women Mean Business organization is set to launch its 2nd exclusive 90-Day Group Golf Training Program, designed to transform business professionals into “Business Golf” professionals. The program will commence virtually on March 5th at 6:30pm ET.
The program promises participants the following:
- Fundamentals and Etiquette
- Skills and Strategy Development
- Mastery and Practical Application
- A Supportive Cohort
“This is an exceptional opportunity for individuals to enhance their skills and connect with like-minded business golf enthusiasts,” says CEO and Founder Patrina King on the information piece sent out to her extensive social network.
Golf Women Mean Business was initiated by King in 2014 and officially incorporated on April 20, 2015. Positioned as the leading authority in business golf, the organization is committed to fostering the next generation of leaders through community service, professional development, golf training, and networking opportunities. Headquartered in Roswell, GA, Golf Women Mean Business aims to elevate the competitive value of professionals across various industries. For more information, interested individuals can visit https://www.golfwomenmeanbusiness.com or contact Patrina King at [email protected].







