Jay Baitz of Charlotte, North Carolina had his 2nd Hole-in-One on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Charles L. Sifford Golf Course at Revolution Park on hole #3 140 yards using 5 iron Ping Club and Titleist Prov 1 Golf Ball. His playing partners were James Boulware and Steve Mayo.
ST. LOUIS, Missouri (October 2, 2025) – The Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour might be a young man’s game, chock-full of mostly 20-somethings these days, but Kevin Hall scored low over both rounds of the APGA Daugherty Foundation Championship and scored one for the APGA’s first generation.
The Cincinnati native backed up a first-round 6-under-par 65 on Wednesday with a final-round 5-under 66 on Thursday to overcome APGA Tour rookie Jonathan Yoshihiro for an overall score of 11-under 131 and a one-stroke victory in the APGA Daugherty Foundation Championship at Glen Echo Country Club.
It is the eighth APGA triumph for Hall, who has played on the APGA Tour since it was established in 2010. He was the first African American to play college golf at Ohio State, serving as a co-captain during his junior (2002-03) and senior (2003-04) years. Hall turned pro in 2005 and broke through to win his first APGA title in 2016 at the APGA Tour Championship.
Hall, 43, has now won APGA events in each of the past three seasons, all after turning 40.
“There were times today, during the round, I thought of Tim O’Neal (former APGA player and current PGA TOUR Champions golfer) and how he continued to win well into his 40s. If he could do it, I can do the same thing,” Hall said. “It means a lot that I am able to get a win here and there.
“It’s an amazing feeling. There are a lot of extremely talented golfers on the APGA Tour, and to be able to hold my own is a satisfying feeling. The level of competition is very high on the APGA Tour and it drives me to work hard every day and continue to get better.”
The APGA Daugherty Foundation Championship is the second of three golf tournaments on the APGA Farmers Insurance© Fall Series. Hall received 500 points toward the APGA’s Jeff Dailey Standings and a $13,500 winner’s prize from a $45,000 purse.
The tournament’s first-round lead was held by Yoshihiro, of Yorba Linda, Calif., on the strength of a 7-under 64. The Cal State Fullerton graduate made his six birdies over the first 11 holes, including three consecutive birdies on holes 5-7, and closed his round with an eagle on the par-4 18th hole. Yoshihiro won his first APGA tournament in August at the tour’s most lucrative event, the Mastercard Tour Championship, and has four top-three finishes in his maiden season on the APGA.
Yoshihiro (10-under 132) entered the final round with a one-stroke lead over Hall, and two shots clear of Jonathan Kang, of Santa Clarita, Calif. Hall opened the final round ablaze, making birdie on three of his first four holes and offsetting Yoshihiro’s eagle on the par-5 fourth hole with an eagle of his own on the par-5 eighth hole to leapfrog Yoshihiro into the lead for the first time at 11-under. Following his tee shot into the eighth fairway, Hall hit his 9-iron approach from 144 yards to 18 feet and made the uphill putt with a slight right-to-left break.
“I think the key was birdieing almost all the holes that were yielding a lot of birdies, and the key was making the eagle on (No.) 8,” said Hall, who prepped his game this week by advancing out of the Pre-Qualifying Stage of PGA TOUR Q-School two weeks ago and placing third at the APGA at TPC Las Vegas last week. “The putter is starting to feel good, and that is key.
“I tried to get all I could on the front nine. Then, the back nine was all about executing shots and not making a mistake coming down the stretch. I would rate my game at around 6 or 7, out of 10, right now. It’s starting to heat up at the right time.”
Yoshihiro, who carded a closing 3-under 68, rallied from two strokes down to start the back nine, briefly catching Hall at 11-under following birdies at Nos. 10 and 12. But the par-4 was pivotal, with Hall making birdie and Yoshihiro making the first of two bogeys over his next three holes, and it gave Hall a lead he would not relinquish.
Hall and Kang each registered seven birdies in Wednesday’s first round. Hall got into red figures following birdies at Nos. 4 and 5 and closed with four birdies over a clean back nine, finishing up with birdies at Nos. 17 and 18. Kang, who played college golf at UC Irvine from 2016-21 and joined the APGA in 2023, strung together five birdies in a seven-hole stretch, tallying them consecutively at the fourth and fifth holes and Nos. 8-10.
Hall’s last APGA triumph, prior to this week, came at the 2024 APGA at Bermuda event. That win granted him an exemption into the PGA TOUR’s 2025 Butterfield Bermuda Championship in mid-November. He will be giving up that sponsor exemption, however, so he can compete in the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo (Nov. 15-26).
The APGA’s only deaf golfer, Hall has made two starts on the PGA TOUR – as the Charlie Sifford Memorial Exemption recipient for the 2017 Genesis Open and most recently at the 2021 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. The Deaflympics is a personal calling that supersedes the pageantry and potential payday of a PGA TOUR event.
Said Hall: “I have never competed in the Deaflympics and, since it goes every four years, I felt it was time at 43 to go experience it once before it’s too late. I have been blessed to play in a lot of big events and this was one I have yet to do. I felt like I needed to go play in the Deaflympics. It will be one of the greatest honors of my life and I can’t wait.”
Former Howard University (Washington DC) teammates Everett Whiten Jr. (9-under 133), of Chesapeake, Va., and Gregory Odom Jr. (8-under 134), a Memphis, Tenn. native, finished third and fourth, respectively. Two-time APGA winner Andrew Walker, the tournament’s 2024 champion from Holt, Mich., placed T18 at 2-under 140.
The APGA Tour travels west for its 14th tournament of the year and descends on its most iconic tournament locale – Pebble Beach –at the 20-player Cisco Invitational (Oct. 13-16 at Spyglass Hill Golf Course), the last of three 54-hole events on the APGA Tour. The 2025 APGA season runs through November with 16 tournaments from coast to coast.
Over the past five years, Make Golf Your Thing (MGYT) has become a transformative force in the golf industry, reshaping the game’s landscape by championing inclusion, diversity, and sustained growth. Launched in 2020 amid the pandemic, MGYT emerged as a united industry effort to both retain the surge in golf participation and address the sport’s longstanding diversity challenges. Since then, more than 150 volunteer leaders from across the golf ecosystem have driven the initiative forward through collaborative programs, grassroots outreach, and systemic changes aimed at making golf accessible and welcoming to all.
At the heart of MGYT’s mission are three primary areas of focus: expanding participation through grassroots grants, connecting talent with opportunity, and linking minority-owned businesses to the industry through a diverse supplier database. These initiatives have yielded remarkable results. The Grassroots Grants Program invested $3 million to support 186 organizations, contributing to a dramatic rise in participation. By 2024, golf participation in the United States reached 47.2 million people, a 50% increase over the past decade. Ethnically diverse participation grew by 44% since 2020, and female participation rose by 41%, with 7.9 million women playing on-course golf.
MGYT also tackled workforce diversity with the Make Golf Your Career job portal, launched in 2023 in partnership with YM Careers. By 2024, the platform had over 2,000 job postings and more than 325,000 views, with targeted outreach on HBCU campuses and at major recruiting events like the National Black MBA Conference. The White House Initiative on HBCUs and the U.S. golf industry further strengthened ties with historically Black institutions through campus visits, career sessions, and golf learning centers. Ten HBCUs benefited, with several receiving golf simulators to support student training.
On the business side, MGYT launched a diverse supplier portal connecting golf industry decision-makers with over 2,000 minority-owned vendors, serving 14,000 users in 2024. This opened doors for underrepresented businesses to become integral parts of tournaments, facilities, and corporate operations.
Major golf organizations have also expanded their inclusion work alongside MGYT. The USGA introduced new internship and development programs, while the PGA of America expanded initiatives like PGA Works and PGA VendorMatch to foster workforce diversity and supplier inclusion. The PGA TOUR committed $100 million to equity efforts, launched player development and HBCU grant programs, and strengthened the APGA Tour. The LPGA, Masters Tournament, and Golf Course Superintendents Association also enhanced youth programs, adaptive golf initiatives, and educational outreach.
The collective efforts of MGYT and its partners have laid a robust foundation for a more equitable future. From the Underrated Golf Tour and the African American Golf Expo to accessible golf programs for individuals with disabilities, the industry is now more reflective of society’s diversity. The past five years demonstrate how strategic collaboration, inclusive programming, and dedicated volunteers can transform a sport once seen as exclusive into one that welcomes everyone. MGYT’s progress is more than an achievement—it is a blueprint for golf’s inclusive and sustainable future.
VIEW THE 5 YEAR SUMMARY REPORT HERE
Judge Ron Ramsey (August 14, 1959 – September 25, 2025) was a respected jurist, devoted public servant, and tireless advocate for justice whose life and career left a profound impact on his community and the legal profession. Known for his unwavering commitment to fairness and equality, Judge Ramsey dedicated decades to upholding the law and mentoring the next generation of legal minds.
Born on August 14, 1959, Ramsey grew up with a strong sense of purpose and a belief in service to others. He pursued higher education with determination, earning his law degree and embarking on a legal career defined by integrity, compassion, and intellectual rigor. Over the years, he built a distinguished record as an attorney before ascending to the bench, where he presided with a balance of firmness and humanity that earned him the respect of colleagues, attorneys, and litigants alike.
Throughout his career, Judge Ramsey was known for his deep understanding of the law and his ability to apply it with fairness and empathy. He was a member of the Democratic party and believed that the courtroom should be a place not only of justice but also of dignity and respect for all who entered it. Beyond the bench, he was a Alpha Psi fraternity brother, a mentor and role model, often volunteering his time to speak with students, support young lawyers, and advocate for increased diversity and inclusion within the legal system.
He was a member of the Georgia State Senate representing the 43rd District, serving from 2007 to July 2015. Ramsey resigned his Senate seat following his appointment by Georgia Governor Nathan Deal to become a judge serving the Traffic Division of DeKalb State Court in DeKalb County.
In 2000, he was appointed as the first African American Municipal Court Judge in Stone Mountain, Georgia. He later served as Georgia State Senator for the 43rd District for nine years, where he championed justice reform and bipartisan collaboration. In 2015, he was appointed to the DeKalb County State Court, where he pioneered initiatives such as Deferred Sentencing, Court-Supervised Community Service, and the “Angel Wings Initiative” supporting homeless students. He also embraced modernization, leading efforts in technology integration and virtual proceedings, and helped plan a new courthouse scheduled to open in 2025.
His many honors included the Thurgood Marshall Award from the NAACP, the Key to the City of Stonecrest, and the AJMLS Outstanding Alumni Award. He also held leadership positions in the Council of State Court Judges, the Gate City Bar Association, and the American Bar Association, where he was elected to the House of Delegates in 2023.
Judge Ramsey’s legacy extends far beyond his judicial decisions. He was a pillar of his community, active in numerous civic and charitable organizations, and known for his warm personality, sharp wit, and generous spirit. Friends and colleagues remember him as a man of principle who led with humility and treated everyone with kindness and respect.
Beyond his professional achievements, Judge Ramsey’s greatest devotion was to his family. He and his wife Doris shared 40 years of marriage, raising their children, Ronald Jr. and Christyn, with love, faith, and resilience. In 2014, he became a proud grandfather to Mariah, who brought him immense joy.
Judge Ron Ramsey leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to justice. His passing is deeply felt by his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched throughout his distinguished career. Though he is gone, his contributions to the legal profession and his community will endure, inspiring future generations to continue the work he so passionately championed. He will be remembered not only as a remarkable judge but as a man who made the world a fairer, better place.
This year marks a milestone in the history of women’s golf and in the advancement of opportunity for young women across the country. The Women In Golf Foundation (WIGF)—a pioneering organization dedicated to empowering girls and women through the game of golf—celebrates 30 years of mentorship, leadership development, and competitive excellence.
WIGF was founded with a bold vision to expand access to the sport and open pathways for student-athletes from historically underrepresented communities. What began as a grassroots effort has evolved into a far-reaching platform that helps young women build confidence, sharpen life skills, and pursue academic and career success.
A Legacy Built One Opportunity at a Time
Over three decades, the Women In Golf Foundation has touched the lives of hundreds of young women—many of whom credit the organization with changing the trajectory of their futures. Through clinics, leadership workshops, industry exposure, mentorship, and tournament play, WIGF has created spaces where young women can grow both as athletes and as leaders.
At the heart of this impact is the Foundation’s signature event: the National Women’s Collegiate Golf Championship, now recognized as one of the most significant competitive and developmental platforms for HBCU women’s golf teams. The championship has grown into a national champion for equity in golf. For 30 years, this championship has not only elevated collegiate competition but has also served as a gateway to professional opportunities and lifelong networks.
The Foundation’s influence extends far beyond the fairway. Many alumnae have gone on to pursue successful careers in business, STEM, law, healthcare, sports management, education, and professional golf—a testament to the holistic support that WIGF provides.
“This year marks a truly special milestone—30 years of impact, growth, and opportunity through the Women in Golf Foundation!,” said Gould. “As we celebrated this yearlong anniversary during the National Women’s Collegiate Golf Championship, we reflected on our journey and looked ahead to an even brighter future.”
“The 30th Anniversary theme – Sankofa Swing: Honoring Our Past, Driving Our Future – was inspired by the Sankofa bird,” says WIGF Founder LaJean Gould. “It is a powerful Ghanaian symbol. With its feet planted forward and gaze turned back, the Sankofa bird carries a precious egg—representing the wisdom and foundation that shape what’s to come.”
This perfectly embodies the spirit of WIGF. Since its founding, the organization has remained committed to empowering the next generation to learn, grow, and lead—on and off the golf course. Throughout the year, WIGF will continue to honor alumni, share stories of impact, and engage the community in securing the next 30 years of WIGF’s legacy.
“The 2025 event, presented by Arcis Golf and H-E-B, was an outstanding success, and we attribute much of that success to the 13 teams who made time in their schedules to join us for this year’s competition and our sponsors and volunteers for their generous support. Collectively, our commitment to showcasing the impact of empowering young women in golf created space for so many incredible moments,” Gould said.
“One of the highlights of this year’s championship was watching the women’s golf team from Howard University clinch the esteemed Renee Powell Cup. It was a proud moment for WIGF, symbolizing the impact of our mission for fostering talent and diversity within our sport. A tremendous congratulations to the team at Edward Waters College, first time participants, who won the Division II competition and took home the inaugural LaJean Gould Cup, symbolizing growth of the program and competitive competition.”
Congratulations goes out to Alaythia Hinds from Howard University, who emerged as the low medalist for Division I, earning an exemption into the Epson Tour’s Hartford Healthcare Women’s Championship. Additionally, Divyasheni Gunasegar, from Lincoln University, Division II Medalist, has received an invitation to participate in the LPGA’s Chevron Championship Pro Am where she’ll go inside the ropes to meet and play alongside LPGA Tour players and sponsors.
Celebrating 30 Years: Honoring a Vision and Its Stewards
This anniversary year is more than a celebration—it is a tribute to the people who built and sustained the Women In Golf Foundation:
Together, this community has built something rare and powerful: a legacy that grows stronger with every generation.
Legacy Worth Celebrating
For 30 years, the Women In Golf Foundation has done more than elevate the sport—it has uplifted lives. It has created access where none existed, offered mentorship where it was most needed, and built confidence in young women who are now shaping industries and communities across the nation.
For a comprehensive overview of the event sponsors, speaker bios, and agenda, take a moment to explore the Virtual Event Program HERE.
Investing in the future of golf!
WIGF is proud to contribute $40,000 to the universities that competed in the 2025 National Women’s Collegiate Golf Championship. This brings their total contributions to $340,000—an investment that strengthens women’s golf programs nationwide and supports player development, access, and opportunity.
Driving the Future Forward
As the Women In Golf Foundation looks ahead, the commitment remains clear and unwavering. The next decade will build upon the progress of the last 30 years—expanding partnerships, strengthening collegiate programs, and creating even more pathways for young women to excel in golf and beyond.
The excitement is already building for next year, when WIGF will host its 31st Championship Event Week. With new initiatives on the horizon and an ever-growing network of alumnae and supporters, the Foundation is poised to deepen its impact and continue shaping the future of women’s golf.
“And as we honor this remarkable milestone, we also celebrate the promise of the decades still to come,” said Founder Gould. Together with their partners and supporters, WIGF is fueling the next generation of leaders in golf and continuing their mission to empower women and girls through the game. WIGF thanks all of them for being part of this incredible chapter—and for helping shape the future of WIGF. For more information on the Women In Golf Foundation visit. For more information on the Women In Golf Foundation visit https://www.womeningolffoundation.org/
In the heart of Augusta, Georgia, where the Masters Tournament transforms the city each spring into a global golf destination, one man is redefining the way visitors experience this iconic event. Teddy Tripp, founder of Green Space Rentals, has created a dedicated home rental platform designed to connect homeowners with golf fans seeking premium accommodations during Masters Week. More than just a business, Green Space Rentals is the culmination of Tripp’s passion for people, relationships, and exceptional service.
“My passion for people and building relationships drove me to start my own home rental business,” says Tripp. “After working for Masters Housing Bureau for two years, I saw the impact it had on both renters and homeowners. I wanted to create something that served everyone equally and allowed all homeowners to be part of this opportunity.”
Originally from North Little Rock, Arkansas, Tripp has called the Augusta area home on and off since 2009. Over time, he became deeply connected to the community and its unique Masters culture. His company, Green Space Rentals, is locally owned and operated with a mission to provide both homeowners and renters with more than just a transaction — it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience. Green Space works closely with clients throughout the entire process, from listing and evaluation to the final checkout, ensuring a seamless and supportive journey.
Quality control is one of the agency’s top priorities. Each property listed undergoes a detailed review to meet the high expectations of guests attending one of the most prestigious golf events in the world. “We pride ourselves on making sure the homes we rent are up to standard,” Tripp explains. “We offer homeowners the option for a full evaluation and walkthrough of their property before listing, so they know exactly what renters are looking for and how to maximize their home’s value.”
For visitors, Green Space aims to deliver more than just a place to stay. Tripp wants guests to walk away feeling that they’ve been part of something special. “We hope renters not only enjoy their stay but experience a level of customer service that has them coming back year after year,” he says. “Our goal is for them to share that joy with others and encourage friends, families, and companies to choose us for their Masters Tournament housing needs.”
Launching Green Space Rentals was not without challenges. The Augusta housing market is saturated with agencies deeply rooted in the community. At times, Tripp doubted whether there was room for a new player. But a heartfelt conversation with his daughter changed everything. “My daughter looked at me and said, ‘Daddy, you always tell us we can’t give up on things, so you can’t give up on what you want to do either,’” recalls Tripp. “That moment pushed me to follow my passion for community engagement and hospitality.”
In addition to family support, Tripp credits several mentors in the golf industry for guiding his journey, including Arthur Johnson, James Beatty, Mark Lazarus, Frank Nobilo, and Will McIntosh. Their belief in his vision gave him the confidence to bring Green Space Rentals to life and position it as a trusted name in Masters housing.
Looking to the future, Tripp envisions Green Space Rentals expanding beyond Masters Week. His long-term goal is to provide services year-round and become a key player in Augusta’s hospitality scene. “My hope is that Green Space serves the community with an unparalleled experience that reflects our dedication and support,” he says. “We want to be part of the city’s growth and continue building strong relationships with homeowners and visitors alike.”
Beyond housing, Green Space Rentals offers additional services to enhance the Masters Week experience. These include housekeeping, transportation, and personalized shopping services before and during the tournament. Tripp’s goal is to make Green Space a one-stop shop for all visitor needs, setting a new standard for convenience and hospitality.
As the Masters continues to grow as one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world, so too does the demand for quality accommodations and personalized service. Green Space Rentals, with its focus on relationships, community, and excellence, is poised to become a cornerstone of the Augusta experience. Teddy Tripp’s journey from industry insider to business owner is a testament to perseverance, family inspiration, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of people.
“We’re not just renting houses,” Tripp reflects. “We’re creating experiences, building relationships, and making sure every person — homeowner or renter — feels valued. That’s what Green Space is all about.”
With a dedicated website and a growing client base, Green Space Rentals is set to play a vital role in how visitors experience Masters Week. For Tripp, the dream that began with a simple desire to serve people has evolved into a thriving business built on trust, quality, and heart — and it’s only just getting started. For more information contact 706.945.3886 or email [email protected] or visit www.gsrhomes.net.
TGR Foundation announced the appointment of Kendyl Moss as senior vice president of the Southeast region.
Moss is a skilled leader who brings more than 20 years of comprehensive experience in development, community relations and event marketing.
With the recent announcement of expansion to the southeast region at the Foundation’s fourth TGR Learning Lab in Augusta, Ga, regional leadership is critical to establishing and managing TGR Learning Labs across multiple locations.
As the senior vice president, Moss will report to the CEO and will oversee the strategic development and operations of the TGR Learning Lab Augusta and new locations to follow. She will also drive the growth and sustainability of TGR Learning Labs in the southeast through fundraising, community partnerships and site development while ensuring seamless launches and operational excellence at new locations. As the first SVP for a regional division, Moss will shape the regional expansion strategy, to support future leaders as the organization grows.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kendyl to our team,” said Cyndi Court, TGR Foundation CEO. “As we grow our programs and impact, her expertise will add immediate value and drive meaningful partnerships through her deep relationships and expertise.”
Prior to joining TGR Foundation, Moss led the Atlanta Track Club Foundation as president for almost five years. She has also previously served as the head of development at Atlanta International School and with the Atlanta Falcons in roles including vice president of community relations, program officer and events manager. Moss began her career in college athletics, serving as the assistant director of championships and compliance at Conference USA and assistant director of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament and Final Four.
“I am honored to join TGR Foundation and look forward to helping expand on nearly 30 years of impact with more opportunities for students to pursue their passions through education,” said Moss.
Moss holds a Bachelor of Science in speech communications from the University of Texas at Austin and a master’s degree in organizational communications from DePaul University.
About TGR Foundation
For more than 28 years, TGR Foundation has worked to create a world where opportunity is universal and potential is limitless. With an unwavering commitment to positively impacting youth from under-resourced communities, its mission is to empower students to pursue their passions through education. TGR Foundation helps students learn, grow and prepare for their futures through a network of TGR Learning Labs and national programs focused on STEAM educational enrichment, health and well-being and career and college career readiness. For more information visit TGRFoundation.org or connect on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The fourth season of Stephen Curry’s UNDERRATED Golf Tour, presented by KPMG, concluded in spectacular fashion with the prestigious Curry Cup championship at Liberty National Golf Club, a scenic and iconic venue along the Hudson River. The tour, founded by the four-time NBA champion to expand access and opportunity for underrepresented junior golfers, once again delivered a blend of high-level competition, career development, and life-changing experiences for its participants.
After a summer filled with intense regional and international events, the top 31 junior golfers from the 2025 UNDERRATED Golf Tour and the UNDERRATED Golf European Tour earned their place in the two-day, 36-hole finale. The stakes were high, but Jayden Lizama and Julia Herzberg rose to the challenge, capturing the Curry Cup titles with impressive scores of -8 and -1, respectively. Their victories marked the culmination of months of dedication and competition and highlighted the remarkable talent fostered by the UNDERRATED Golf initiative.
The Curry Cup was more than just a tournament; it was a transformative experience. Stephen Curry himself was on hand to cheer on the players, alongside U.S. tour ambassadors Mariah Stackhouse and Will Lowery and European tour ambassador Henni Zuël. Their presence underscored the sense of community and mentorship that defines the UNDERRATED Golf Tour. While in New York City, the junior golfers participated in a series of panels and events designed to expand their understanding of careers and opportunities within the golf industry and beyond. One highlight was a networking session hosted by Karina Mendez, a performance coach with United Airlines, where players learned valuable skills for building relationships and navigating professional environments.
Another key event was the UGT Partners Panel, which brought together influential industry leaders such as Dan Fireman, Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Liberty National Golf Club; Shawn Quill, Principal at KPMG; Phil Griffith, Vice President of Airport Operations at United Airlines; and Virgil Cannon, ATAE at CDW. These discussions offered the young golfers insight into the business side of the sport and demonstrated the wide range of opportunities that golf can open up.
To cap off an inspiring week, the participants attended the KPMG Leadership Development Day at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, hosted by Mariah Stackhouse. The day included an engaging panel with Stackhouse and Curry and featured interactive workshops aimed at developing leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills. These sessions were designed to equip the junior golfers with tools they can use both on the course and in their future careers, emphasizing Curry’s belief that golf is not just a game but a platform for personal growth and empowerment.
The Curry Cup champions received more than just trophies. UNDERRATED Golf European Tour partner United Airlines awarded Jayden Lizama and Julia Herzberg $5,000 each in TravelBank cash, which can be used for air travel on United and United Express flights. United has been a dedicated supporter of the UNDERRATED Golf Tour since its inception and continues to help young golfers pursue their dreams on a global stage.
In another highlight of the closing ceremony, Siham Ibrahim and Evan Pena were awarded the Dell Curry Scholarship presented by Cisco, receiving $25,000 each to support their educational journeys. These scholarships reflect the tour’s broader mission of providing life-changing opportunities beyond the fairways, reinforcing the belief that golf can be a gateway to success in many areas of life.
The 2025 season of Stephen Curry’s UNDERRATED Golf Tour not only crowned new champions but also empowered a new generation of golfers with the confidence, skills, and support to pursue their dreams. Through elite competition, mentorship, education, and financial backing, the tour continues to redefine what is possible for young, diverse athletes in golf. As Curry’s vision grows each year, the UNDERRATED Golf Tour remains a powerful force for inclusion, inspiration, and opportunity in the sport, shaping future leaders both on and off the course.
If you ever thought carrying someone else’s golf clubs for a living was a thankless job, think again. Caddies at the Ryder Cup aren’t just walking yardage books with legs — they’re walking straight into some serious paydays. Forget the image of a sunburned guy sweating under a heavy bag for a sandwich and a handshake. These bag-toting strategists are making bank.
Here’s the deal: most professional caddies earn a base salary for the week plus a percentage of their player’s winnings. That percentage typically hovers around 5% for making the cut, 7% for a top-10 finish, and a glorious 10% for a win. And while Ryder Cup players don’t earn prize money — they’re technically playing for glory and national pride — caddies aren’t left counting pennies. Players often give their trusty sidekicks a hefty bonus as a thank-you for a week of reading greens, calming nerves, and keeping the boss from snapping a wedge in half.
Some reports suggest Ryder Cup caddies can pocket anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 for the event — and that’s just the base. Throw in gifts, luxury swag, and the occasional all-expenses-paid celebration dinner, and it’s a pretty sweet gig. Not bad for someone whose main job is to say things like, “Maybe don’t hit it in the water.”
And let’s be honest: these aren’t just glorified sherpas. Caddies at the Ryder Cup act as psychologists, meteorologists, mathematicians, and sometimes even babysitters. They’re the ones reminding players not to aim directly at the flag when adrenaline is pumping and the crowd is chanting. They read greens with the precision of NASA engineers and offer pep talks worthy of halftime speeches.
As Lee Trevino once joked, “It’s the most important job in golf — besides the guy hitting the ball.” And he’s not wrong. Without caddies, half the players would be wandering around the rough muttering about wind direction.
So the next time you see a caddie striding confidently across the Ryder Cup fairways, remember: behind that humble towel-wielding exterior is someone cashing a check that might rival your annual salary. All for lugging clubs, crunching numbers, and occasionally whispering, “You’ve got this.” Turns out, carrying someone else’s bag isn’t such a heavy burden after all.
LAS VEGAS, Nevada (September 24, 2025) – One of the foremost veterans on the Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour, Willie Mack III, still holds plenty of tricks in his bag. He appears to be dialing in his game as the 2025 APGA season enters its final stretch and, with a tournament title at stake on Wednesday at TPC Las Vegas, he came up all aces.
The Flint, Michigan native and Orlando, Florida resident overcame a two-stroke deficit entering Wednesday’s final round of the APGA at TPC Las Vegas, firing a bogey-free 7-under-par 64 to surge past Round 1 leader Jaime Lopez Rivarola for his 16th career APGA victory – the most among active APGA golfers.
The APGA at TPC Las Vegas is the first of three golf tournaments on the APGA Farmers Insurance© Fall Series. Mack III received 500 points toward the APGA’s Jeff Dailey Standings and a $7,500 first-place prize from a $25,000 purse.
“It’s exciting. They (Farmers Insurance) were my first big sponsor. (That) I can come out here and get the victory with their name on it is special,” Mack III said. “They’ve been supporting me through ups and downs. A lot more ups than downs. I’ve been playing well the last couple weeks so hopefully I can keep doing that the rest of the year.”
An APGA player since 2011, the same year he turned professional, Mack III tallied an overall 36-hole score of 10-under 132 at TPC Las Vegas, besting Rivarola by two strokes to become the third golfer to win multiple APGA titles in 2025, following Marcus Byrd and Kamaiu Johnson.
Mack III has won two of the last four APGA Tour events, after teaming with fellow Orlando resident Luis Gagne to win the APGA Two-Man Classic at TPC Louisiana at the end of July. At that time, Mack III was re-tooling his bag with some new clubs in preparation for the final third of the APGA season and his participation in the first stage of PGA TOUR Q-School in October.
Said Mack III: “For sure, this is a confidence booster going into Pebble (Beach for the APGA’s Cisco Invitational Oct. 13-16). After that is first stage of Q-School. I’m just going to keep doing the same things I’ve been doing and keep everything sharp, and hopefully I can keep playing well.”
Rivarola, a Buenos Aires, Argentina native and Alpharetta, Georgia resident, also was bidding for his second APGA Tour triumph this year. The University of Georgia product most recently captured the APGA at TPC San Antonio in March.
Holding two career APGA titles, Rivarola entered Wednesday’s final round as the tournament leader following a 5-under 66 in Tuesday’s first round. That earned him a one-shot lead over Brian Ohr and Kevin Hall and put him two strokes clear of Mack III. Rivarola and Mack III each registered three birdies on their front nines during Wednesday’s final round.
Rivarola began the back nine with his only bogey of the day on No. 10 and Mack III, playing in the penultimate grouping, briefly caught Rivarola at 7-under with a birdie at No. 12. Rivarola then followed suit with his own birdie on the par-3 12th to regain a one-shot lead before Mack III overtook Rivarola with consecutive birdies at the par-4 14th and par-5 15th holes to get to 9-under. He sealed the win with a closing birdie on the par-4 18th hole.
“Everything was pretty much on all cylinders,” Mack III said. “I had no bogeys. I had a couple three-putts yesterday so I just told myself if I could not three-putt and keep hitting the ball like I did yesterday, I can put up a good number.”
In Tuesday’s first round, Rivarola rebounded from his sole bogey on the first hole with an eagle on the par-5 fourth hole and birdies on Nos. 6, 8 and 9. He concluded the opening round with his fourth birdie of the day.
Hall traded a birdie with a bogey on his first two holes and then again after the turn, but he made his first-round move with four consecutive birdies on holes 4-7. Ohr recorded a bogey-free first round with three birdies in a four-hole stretch – on Nos. 3, 4, 6 – and a final birdie on the par-4 13th hole.
Cincinnati native and seven-time APGA winner Hall (6-under 136), who has played on the APGA Tour since it was established in 2010, and Wheeling, Illinois resident Ohr (5-under 137) wound up finishing third and fourth, respectively.
Las Vegas native Marcus Mullins carded an overall score of 9-over 151 (75-76) and placed 36th in his home event. The second-year APGA golfer was the only Nevada player in the 39-man field.
The APGA Tour moves to St. Louis, Missouri for its 13th tournament of the year, and its second of three stops along the APGA Farmers Insurance Fall Series circuit, at the 36-hole APGA Daugherty Foundation Championship Sept. 30-Oct. 2 at Glen Echo Country Club. The 2025 APGA season runs through November with 16 tournaments from coast to coast.
About the APGA Tour
The APGA Tour was established in 2010 as a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring an inclusive future through the game of golf. The APGA Tour Board of Directors works diligently to accomplish this by hosting and operating professional golf tournaments, player development programs, mentoring programs, and by introducing the game to inner city young people. In addition to conducting 16 tournaments awarding more than $1 million in prize and bonus money, the APGA has organized a Player Development Program to aid golfers as they work to chase their professional golf goals.
Chuck Thompson’s book, EGO: Edging Golf Out, delves into the challenges and opportunities facing the golf industry in the post-COVID era. Drawing from his extensive experience as the founder of MMC® and author of Golf: The Untapped Market, Thompson presents a compelling case for transforming the game to ensure its growth and sustainability.
In the aftermath of the pandemic, many golf courses experienced a surge in popularity, but this was often short-lived. Thompson identifies several factors contributing to this phenomenon, including the industry’s reliance on outdated marketing strategies and a failure to adapt to the evolving preferences of casual and new golfers. He argues that the traditional focus on “core” and “avid” golfers has limited the sport’s appeal and growth potential.
One of the central themes of EGO is the need for a paradigm shift in how golf is marketed and perceived. Thompson introduces the concept of “Lost Leader” marketing—a strategy that leverages underutilized assets to create compelling offers that attract new players without incurring financial losses. This approach contrasts with the conventional “Loss Leader” marketing, which often involves offering products or services at a loss to draw in customers.
Thompson emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the sport. He advocates for making golf more affordable and accessible, thereby attracting a broader demographic. This inclusivity extends beyond financial considerations; it encompasses creating a welcoming environment for individuals from various backgrounds and skill levels.
The book also highlights the role of industry leaders, including organizations like the PGA and LIV Golf, in driving change. Thompson calls upon these entities to challenge their existing attitudes and perceptions, fostering a culture that prioritizes growth and engagement over tradition. He believes that collective action is essential to reversing the decline in golf participation and ensuring the sport’s future.
EGO: Edging Golf Out serves as both a critique and a blueprint for revitalizing the golf industry. Through innovative marketing strategies, a commitment to inclusivity, and a willingness to embrace change, Thompson believes that golf can overcome its current challenges and thrive in the years to come. His insights offer valuable guidance for course owners, operators, and industry leaders seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of the sport.
The Daugherty Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Daugherty Enterprises, in partnership with the Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour, proudly presents the 2025 APGA Daugherty Foundation Championship at the historic Glen Echo Country Club from September 30 to October 2, 2025. Founded in 2010, the APGA Tour is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering an inclusive future through golf. The Tour hosts professional tournaments, mentoring programs, and player development initiatives while introducing the game to inner-city youth. Each year, it conducts 16 tournaments awarding over $1 million in prize and bonus money and organizes a Player Development Program to support golfers pursuing professional careers.
Glen Echo Country Club, located at 3401 Lucas and Hunt Rd., St. Louis, MO hosts a two-day professional men’s tournament, the inaugural women’s tournament, and a youth golf clinic, all designed to engage the community and promote diversity in golf. The Daugherty Foundation is committed to creating opportunities and empowering individuals by supporting education, youth development, and social equity initiatives.
Attendees will have opportunities to meet the players on the course, witness the first-ever Women’s Golf Tournament and awards ceremony, and attend the Youth Golf Clinic from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., which is open to the public and highlights diversity in golf. The schedule for Wednesday, October 1, includes the women’s competition beginning at 7:45 a.m., the first round of the men’s competition at 8:15 a.m., the women’s award ceremony at 3:00 p.m., and the youth clinic starting at 4:00 p.m. More information about the Daugherty Foundation can be found at daughertyenterprises.com and about the APGA Tour at apgatour.org.