In September 2013, the late, great Calvin Peete was the featured guest speaker for the Alabama A&M University Alumni Homecoming Golf Tournament banquet, and he served as Grand Marshal for the A&M homecoming parade. Because of my experience in the golf industry, Dr. Taylor Byrd, Alabama A&M Tournament Alumni Director, asked me to join him at the airport to welcome Calvin Peete to Huntsville, Alabama.
I can remember greeting and meeting Mr. Peete at the Huntsville International Airport. Surprisingly, he was a somewhat small man in stature. From watching him play golf on T.V., and enjoying his great success, i.e. beating the other golfers, making the Ryder Cup team twice, along with other accomplishments, I imagined him to be a physically big person. During and after my personal experience with Calvin (he insisted I call him Calvin), he was actually a bigger person in spirit than anyone can imagine.
Photo: (L-R) Howard Bankhead, founder of Youth Golf Development, the late, great Calvin Peete.
I remember Calvin sharing a story at the banquet. He said, “Being in the golfing environment, I met people that helped me achieve things that, as a youth, I never thought would happen”. His talk at the banquet was captivating, but the words that caught my ears the most is when Calvin said: “Just being in the golfing environment enabled him to meet people that helped him to be successful on, and off,the golf course”. In my quest to introduce youth to the game and intrinsic values of golf, I emphasize the benefits of JUST BEING in the golfing environment.
Calvin Peete’s success was inspirational to many people because he overcame obstacles which included: physical limitations; the lack of resources needed to play the highest level in golf; And the biggest obstacle, that of being a black man in a white (sport) world that did not want black people in their sport. Actually these obstacles were not Calvin’s, but the people who didn’t think he would succeed in the wonderful world of golf!
At that period of time, the world in general–and especially the golf world–a black man was not afforded the opportunities to be all he could be.
Additionally, the system fought against a black person having access to the offerings that the world of golf offered. However, it is obvious now that Calvin’s positive energy overcame all of those negative forces.
Photo: (L-R) The late, great Calvin Peete and Dr. Taylor Byrd, Alabama A&M Golf Tournament Director
Calvin Peete also shared with me that before The First Tee program was created (1998), he always talked with his good friend Deane Beman about creating some type of program for underserved youth to have access to golf.
Deane Beman the former PGA Tour commissioner was once called the Most Powerful Person in Golf, transformed the Tour into the success story it is today.
Calvin Peete’s visit to Alabama A & M University is a prime action of “Giving Back”!
Visit our website: www.golflifeskills.org
DONATION AND Sponsorship ARE NEEDED! In order to grow and continue the success of TVYGD, we ask for your love, support and donations!
“Anything positive is possible”
Howard Bankhead
Executive Director
Tennessee Valley Youth Golf Development
604 Jordan Lane
Huntsville, AL 35816 USA
256-604-8172
NeverLost Golf Ball: Track Your Golf Balls with your Smartphone
Now there is a way to play smarter, play faster, score better and save balls. The Chip-ing NeverLost golf ball is here and it is the first major innovation brought to the game since the introduction of the graphite driver shaft in 1969.
The NeverLost golf ball looks, weighs, and behaves like a regular golf ball, but has an intelligent core built in that communicates with any smartphone. Golf balls can be tracked and found up to a distance of 150 yards. On average balls are found in less than one minute. NeverLost golf balls help golfers play faster, score better, and save balls.
“An average of 4.5 balls get lost per round during every game. With NeverLost golf balls, all you need is one or maybe two if you can‘t stay away from water!. If you play an average 10 rounds per year, you save at least 30-40 balls. That means a savings of at least $100-$150 depending on the brand you play with.” explains creator Thomas Sandel.
The Chip-ing NeverLost golf ball is only made possible due to the latest in technology that allows Bluetooth and battery technology to work seamlessly together inside a golf ball. In the past the battery was simply too big and too fragile to withstands the impact of a club. Due to the advances in technology we have been able to work with the worlds top technology companies to make this possible. This is a welcomed product in the Golf Industry. Golfers say “I was wondering when this would be available. Finally something new and exciting!” Unlike most future concepts that create a demand but takes years to develop, we have created a demand while carefully developing a truly remarkable product that is ready for production now! This is the next WOW item that will certainly revolutionize the golf industry. It is new, it is fresh and it works!
The company’s founders have over 25 years of experience in Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, wireless communication and certification along with international sales, finance and risk management.
The team is launching a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds to mass produce the NeverLost golf ball, get the radio transmission technology certified by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission).
Preorders for the NeverLost ball can be made starting September 18, 2015.
Indiegogo page: https://www.indiegogo.com/project/preview/1bfbb292#/story
For additional information about Chiping
NeverLost please visit our website, http://www.chip-ing.com
Maurice Jeffries II is a full-time professional golfer who knows the importance of time. Like many sportsmen, he is keenly aware of the fact that his age is a big factor in the lifespan and success of his career.
Jeffries started playing with The First Tee at John White Park in Atlanta, Georgia, and participated in the Tour Championship at East Lake Golf Club. Today, the 25-year old has a foundation in the game that he can be proud of while seeking even greater accomplishments.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Jeffries relocated with his parents to Peachtree City, Georgia, when he was 3-years old. He faired well in the Southern metropolis and he went on to complete his college education at Jackson State University on a full 4-year golf scholarship under the great NFL player Walter Payton’s brother, Golf Coach Eddie Payton. Jeffries was a stand out on the team and was a 2-year team captain where they won 3 years of conference titles. He earned in 4-years a B.A. Degree in Political Science (2012).
He has been a member of the White Water Country Club since 2002. And, as a father of a young child, Jeffries has already gotten his daughter Kyndall (age 4) involved with the sport of his dreams, purchasing her first set of golf clubs when she was only 2-years old.
The game of golf has been good for him and through it his eyes have seen some amazing sights.
Photo: Maurice Jeffries with Rory Mcilroy, Number 1 ranked golfer in the world, at the butch Harmon school of golf in Dubai (2014).
“I’ve had the unique opportunity to travel and experience the world. I have been fortunate to travel to some very nice places” says the 5’ 11” tall, 167-pound golfer who is highly motivated. “This has provided me with a perspective–not only my golf life but a worldwide perspective– of how the world lives, and what other cultures have to offer.”
“While most of the places I travel have fine amenities, and golf courses, one cannot help but notice the great amount of impoverished areas and the lack of stability in many of their surrounding regions. But at the end of the day, we are all the same; we all dream of better.”
Photo: Jeffries chats with award-winning actor Will Smith (right)
Jeffries admits that the experience reminds him of just how blessed he is. “It also serves as a motivation for me to continue the quest to fulfill my dreams.”
His monthly practice regimen varies and is primarily based on his tournament schedules. Some months when he is registered to play in tournaments he will play or practice daily. Most of those rounds are at his home course, the White Water Country Club in Fayetteville, Georgia.
“Unlike other sports I’ve played, golf is by far the most challenging. The constant pursuit of perfection keeps me in the right frame of mind, to always think positive and, to never give up my dream of being a success,” says Jeffries who also enjoys riding horses, traveling the world by air and sea and reading good books. “Every great person has a platform from which to build. I’ve learned from many teachable moments in my life; that it is better to give than to receive, and that someone should always see a light in you.”
Bringing Up The Future
A devoted and conscientious player, Jeffries does not let golf define him, and he admits to knowing that this game is not just about him. He absolutely loves giving back to the younger generation that is coming up from behind.
“My ultimate goal is to use golf as a vehicle, to be a role model to the younger generation, to encourage positive thinking and positive outcomes. All my life, my parents have used the mantra ‘Praise God, Never quit; it’s not over until it’s over.’”
Jeffries has volunteered with the Bill Dickey Scholarship Association annual tournament, serving as Assistant Tour Director, chaperone, and has worked to transport junior golfers during the series of events. Each year, he also volunteers with the Fayette County Youth Council NAACP Golf Tournament that he started while serving as Youth Council President. The funds made through this tournament help to provide attendance and participation in the National Convention where players can compete for scholarships. The tournament has had a successful run and is now in its 11th year.
“I am never too busy to stop to answer a question or show someone else on the golf course how to make their game better. I am always there to give a good word to a youngster who may be having a bad day, whether on the golf course or in the classroom,” says Jeffries.
Among his extensive scoreboard of achievements are the U.S. Open Local Qualifying, where he was Low Medalist (64); the Advocates Pro Tour, the MENA Pro Golf Tour (Middle East North Africa); the Asian Tour Qualifying School and the PGA Latin America Qualifying School.
A Reign of Success
Jeffries gives thanks to God and his family for their continued support and the golf training at the Butch Harmon School of Golf, Dubai (UAE) with Coach Justin Parsons. “I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge Tiger Woods as one of my great, all time role models in the game of Golf. It is his play and success in the game that inspired me to pick up a club in the beginning along with my dad. Rory McIlroy is another golfer I admire for his game.”
It’s quite clear that Jeffries knows his strengths and weaknesses and is working hard to become an overall better golfer. “My biggest challenge is the same as what most professional golfers on my level struggle with. I can strike the ball with the best; chip and putt with the best of them; however, my objective is to become more consistent. Being able to learn alongside some of the best players and teachers in the game has afforded me great potential for advancement, and a clear understanding of how to better my game.”
With over 20 years invested in playing golf, Jeffries’ passion for the game has become his significant purpose in life. “I continue my pursuit to play golf on the PGA Tour because I feel that I have a God-given talent to play the game and the work ethic to be successful.
On August 16, 2015 a street dedication ceremony was held for the recently rename 120th Street, to the now Charlie Sifford Drive, which is located in the unincorporated Athens area in Los Angeles, and at the entrance to Chester Washington Golf Course, honoring the great golf pioneer Mr. Charlie Sifford.
The dedication ceremony was held at the Chester Washington Golf Course, Sifford’s long time home course, which is known for the place to golf among, and with some of the Black Great Golf Pioneers.
This is the place where black golf greats, such as Charlie Sifford, Alton Duhon, Charlie Lee, Bill Wright, Frank Snow, Jerry Bruner, and many other great pioneers, would traditionally meet to play golf, discuss their trials and tribulations of a black man trying to gain entry into the professional golf association, and naturally trash talk on who’s the best player.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley -Thomas, convener of the event and master of ceremony, expressed his excitement and gratitude to Steve Bradford, former 2012-2014, Assembly Member of the 62nd District, for spearheading and convincing him that the Chester Washington Golf Course holds historical significance, and needs to be a star in the 62nd District. It was Bradford who convinced Ridley-Thomas that the golf course needs his attention.
In his speech, Supervisor Mark- Ridley Thomas said that he paid attention and has made every effort to make sure that the historical Chester Washington golf course has–and will continue to get–the same amenities that every other upscale golf course in the county system has. Me: Barbara Taylor, this blogger, I applaud Steven Bradford for his vision and passion for this project, and L.A County Supervisor, Mark Ridley-Thomas for his due diligence in making it happen.
Photo: Sifford at 2012 Southern California Golf association (SCGA) induction breakfast with (l-r) blogger Barbra Taylor and Sifford fan Helen Caraway.
“It’s important that we honor Mr. Sifford’s tremendous accomplishments so that all may be inspired by his courage and perseverance,” Ridley-Thomas said.
Sifford’s son, Charlie Sifford Jr. and his caddy, Jimmy Green, were both in attendance. Mark Ridley-Thomas presented the street sign to Charlie Jr. and gave him the opportunity to speak on what the occasion meant to him.
Sifford Jr. shyly expressed his gratitude for the honor and stated that his father would have loved having the street named for him, particularly given the stress he endured during his entire professional golf career.
Steve Bradford, pictured left, former Assemblyman 62nd District, was introduced and told of his experience in meeting Charlie Sifford and of having the chance to play golf with him at Los Verdes Golf course in a tournament. Bradford’s captivating story went like this: “I was a standby at the tournament and didn’t think I had a chance to get to play, so I took my time getting to the tournament location. When I finally got there, arriving late of course–knowing that I ain’t got a chance in hell to play– to my chagrin, I was paired to play with Sifford”. Shortly after I recovered from my self-imposed embarrassment of being late, Charlie Sifford, and I played a great game, bonded, and developed a lifelong friendship.
Rumor has it that Mark-Ridley- Thomas has joined Supervisor Don Knabe in authoring a motion, scheduled for June 2916, to also rename the portion of West 120th Street, behind the golf course (between Western and Van Ness Avenue). Not “if” but when this motion is approved it will add an addition 1/4 mile, that will bare the name Charlie Sifford Avenue. Hooray for L.A !!!
After the street renaming ceremony, I spoke with Tee Diva, Rose Mary Spriggs, member, treasurer, and editor of the club’s newsletter, and she shared with me that “The street renaming just happened to have coincided with the conclusion of the two-day Advocates Pro Tour Golf Tournament, at Chester Washington Golf Course. After the tournament, members of the Advocates, as well as the players and most of the attending crowd, there to watch the tournament, quickly diverted their attention from the golf tournament, to swiftly walking from the golf course down to 120th street to watch the unveiling and the renaming ceremony.
(Photo: Charlie Sifford (center) with friends during the 2012 breakfast inducting him into the Southern California Golf association (SCGA) Hall of Fame.
Rose Mary also added that “When Kenneth Bentley, Executive Director of the Advocates, was introduced he stated that “he was extremely happy, and honored that the street renaming coincided with the conclusion of the Advocated successful Golf Pro Tournament. Bentley also stated that by breaking the color barrier, Sifford made it possible for other minority golfers to play and compete in the world of golf. Sifford had a tremendous impact on the sport, by breaking the barrier for other golfers.”
The cord was pulled and the street sign was unveiled to a thundering round of applauds at 3:30 PM!! And so it is….
Until next time!
Barbara Taylor is a freelance writer who enjoys golf and is living the golf lifestyle! She is based in Los Angeles, California. | Email
(BY KEVIN PRISE) –NORTH PLAINS, Ore. – Throughout the week at the WinCo Foods Portland Open presented by Kraft Heinz, Harold Varner III talked about the need to play his best while also accepting the fact that his fate might ultimately end up out of his hands.
Varner entered the week No. 25 on the Web.com Tour money list, squarely on the bubble in his attempt to earn his PGA TOUR card for the first time. He played his first seven holes Thursday in 4 over, yet battled back to make the cut. When he finished his final round Sunday just as the leaders were teeing off, 2-under total for the week at Pumpkin Ridge GC (Witch Hollow), he knew that anything could still happen.
“I think I can go into the (Web.com Tour) Finals and make some hay,” said Varner upon the conclusion of his final round, well aware that he could be knocked outside the top 25 by afternoon’s end. “I played 21 events, and this round isn’t what it’s going to come down to in my eyes. That’s just how it is, and I’m going to have to accept that.
“Whatever happens, I’m going to get better from it. It’s not going to be easy, but I gave myself a chance. That’s what we want.”
Four hours before his fate would be determined, Varner spoke as a man well aware that he could lose his place in the top 25 quite easily. The most clear-cut scenario fell with the final group of Dicky Pride and Tim Herron: If Herron won and Pride finished solo second, Varner would be surpassed by both on the money list and subsequently lose his top-25 spot.
In between various off-course obligations – and responding to the dozens of text messages and calls that flooded his phone – Varner stationed himself in the Witch Hollow clubhouse, watching the telecast alongside fellow Web.com Tour pros. As the afternoon progressed, it became clear that the tournament would come down to Pride and Herron.
Varner, not a Southeastern Conference fan, even uttered a couple of “Roll Tides” along the way, in reference to Pride’s alma mater. Hardcore fist pumps were in order when Pride rolled in a mid-range par putt midway through the back nine. Dawie van der Walt sat nearby, offering his take on the scenarios, along with fellow Web.com Tour graduates Patton Kizzire, Kelly Kraft and Andrew Landry.
Read more at PGA Tour.com
Harold Varner Becomes First African American To Earn PGA Tour Card Through Web.com
At 6’1” tall and a lean 190 pounds, Jacques Leandre could compete in just about any sport he chooses. But Haitian-born lawyer fancies an attraction to golf.
The Queens, New York resident credits his older brother for introducing him to the game. It all began when his brother would take him along to a summer job that he worked at high school for a local golf course. The pair would spend time together swinging, hitting balls, and playing around.
Today, Leandre carries a 23 handicap and relishes every moment that he can get out on the green. As a member and Co-Founder of the United Black Golfers Association, Inc. (UBGA).
Leandre attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia where he earned a B.A. in finance before completing law school at the City University of New York Law School at Queens College. As Principal of his firm, Law Offices of Jacques M. Leandre, PLLC, located on Broadway in Manhattan and specializing in civil rights and community empowerment law, he is known as “The Community Attorney”. When he’s not in the office you can find him spending quality time with his wife of 17 years, Chrissy, and their two children, Asia and Jacques III. Golf is important to him but not more than family.
Evening meal time brings about a daily opportunity to bond and to catch-up on what’s been happening for the Leandre clan, especially when his favorite dishes of red snapper and navy bean soup are being served.
To keep a decent handicap you have to practice.
Although work takes it’s toll, Leandre tries to play at least four times a month, and, usually with his best golf buddy Vernel Bennett, UBGA President/Founder. Their favorite spot? The Douglaston Golf Course in Queens.
In his specialized career, Leandre is always seeking “justice” and out on the course is no different, where—in this sport, each player is the judge and jury of their own game.
“It is extremely relaxing and always challenging,” say the well postured and clean-shaven Leandre about his enjoyment of golf. But he is also a fierce competitor and plays in several tournaments annually. For this, he credits the invaluable lessons of having a professional golf instructor who can help you with, “…playing a consistent game in various weather conditions.”
Leandre especially enjoys playing with the “old-timers” and listening to the “war stories”. A most admired golfer for Leandre? Well, that woud be none other than the late Calvin Peete. “The man was self-taught….Amazing,” says Leandre. “May he rest in peace.”
Other than being involved in golf, Leandre participates with coaching little league football for the Rosedale Jets Football Association and conducting legal workshops for at-risk youth.
Following her fantastic win on Saturday, September 12, 2015 at the regional of the Drive Chip and Putt Championship in Valhalla golf club in Louisville, KY, 8-year old Lauryn Olivia Leonard of Montgomery, Alabama is headed to Augusta, Georgia to complete in the finals.
“We are very proud of our little daughter; she came through the competition like a real champ,” says her doting father Quincy Leonard, who has been a strong supporter of his daughter and her golf interests.
Lauryn’s scores:
Drive: 7
Chip: 22
Putt: 31
Total: 60
The day of competition, although cooler than usual for the area this time of year, went off as planned at the beautiful Valhalla Golf Club–the last stop for those who sought a winning spot in the Drive, Chip and Putt.
Lauryn’s parents, Quincy & Tish Leonard, Owners of Cupcakes by Tish – Montgomery, AL, loaded up their car in Montgomery, Alabama and drove 7-hours to reach the tournament. “We left on Friday and returned on Sunday,” said Leonard.
The trip was a memorable one and worth every mile. “She is super excited and it was written all over her face when she won. Afterwards, she told her grandmother, “I came here to win, I didn’t do all that hard work for nothing!” Quincy already has planned their travel for the April 3, 2016 finals saying, “We will drive to Augusta early on Saturday, April 2nd.” It’s definitely going to be a highlight road trip for the family and little Lauryn has a long road ahead of her in preparing for the tough competition that awaits.
Following the win, Lauryn’s mom Tish Leonard–and her #1 cheerleader–was ecstatic, because it was her birthday (September 12). She said “The win was the best birthday gift she could’ve gotten!”
Lauryn began playing at the age of 3 at Cottonwood golf course (Montgomery, AL) with her then 5-year old brother and her father. Today, the 42-year old dad also serves as his daughter’s golf coach (Leonard Golf) and readies her for tournaments. Quincy has been playing for almost 20 years and has seen all sides of the youth tournament arena: “Golf tournaments and equipment are very expensive. I believe that is the reason why a lot of young people are not introduced to the game,” he says. “Lauryn’s putting and driving is the strongest part of her game. Her chipping is her weakest.” And together, the father and daughter are working hard on improvements.
Lauryn Olivia Leonard strikes a pose for photographers following her win.
Lauryn’s win gains her the opportunity to participate with nine other lucky junior golfers at Augusta National in April 2016. 72 players in all competed. Players came from all across the country: Alabama, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee and Virginia. Organizers of the tournament were so proud of all the participants and, were incredibly impressed with their ability and sportsmanship.
Lauryn competed in the Girls 7-9 Division and things got off to a fun, spirited start. Lauryn is still celebrating that she took top honors in Chipping.
Trinity Beth of Calvert City, Kentucky took home the top prize for Driving, followed by Emma Hill of Edwardsville, Illinois and Ava Bunker of New Whiteland, Indiana. Lauryn’s win was followed by Hill and Reese Kite of Columbia, Illinois.
Putting First Place went to Claire Swathwood of Carmel, Indiana, followed by Hill and Kite. Kite finished Third Overall and Hill Finished Second Overall. Lauryn was the Overall Champion.
All of us here at the African American Golfer’s Digest wish her the best of luck at Augusta National! See more on at KYGOLF.ORG
Photo left: Quincy and Lauryn Olivia Leonard)
The African American Golfer’s Digest annual print or digital subscription is a great way to BOOST your club membership package! With just a minimum requirement of 10 members, or more your club can take advantage of a deep discount rate:
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Step into Vivobarefoot Linx golf shoe and you’ll be the King (or Queen) of the course. This shoe is as sturdy as it is beautiful, that’s because it is made of a durable, breathable upper nylon mesh that’s lightweight. The Linx golf shoe is both stylish and comfortable and, will not weigh you down. This golf shoe keeps you light on your feet while providing excellent dexterity for your entire foot, and toes.
The Linx shoe sole is multi directional V-teech and is super flexible. It is constructed with a deep tread that is ready to handle almost any terrain or slope. The sole absorbs well and grips like a non-slip sole on dirt, gravel and pavement. You’ll move easy in this shoe and enjoy the sensory feedback. It is so flexible, until it rolls up easily.
Linx has a water resistant upper Nylon and Poly-utherane that will keep you dry and protected from the elements that permeate the course: mud, slush, water and more. While wearing this shoe you’ll be ready for the driving range, practice founds and even court sports and off-road tails.
A great design of this shoe is prevalent on the outside, where seams add a subtle bit of class. It’s not overdone and has a nice appeal for all social and tournament golf games.
Upper material: Nylon and PU
Upper description: Nylon Vamp lightweight and water repellent
Collar/panel/lining: Textile Lining
Sole unit: V-Off Road
Sole thickness: 4.5MM
Sole description: Multi Directional V-teeth for the steepest, muddiest and wettest terrains. Ultimate off road traction and sensory feedback
Closure/lacing: Lace-up System: Fasten securely with simple tie-up lace.
Insole: Yes
Colors; Navy/White, Black/Red
Andy Walker is a 36-year old golfer based in Phoenix, Arizona who has been hooked since he was “still in diapers.” He followed is dad to tournaments and says he’s “always loved the game.” Walker played on a collegiate level at the prestigious Pepperdine University where their team won the 1997 NCAA Championship, meanwhile earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Management.
He was trained by golf pros Jeff Dunovant from 1990-2004, then William Dixon from 2005 to present. He grew up as a member of the Desert Mashie Golf Club, and currently member of the Pepperdine University Athletic Hall of Fame. Today he makes a living as the Head Golf Coach at South Mountain Community College, the Sr. Instructor at the Golf Channel Academy @ Legacy, and the owner of U.S. Golf Combines (www.usgolfcombines.com) and he never seems to take a break.
“I’m either teaching, coaching, or traveling on tour, now as an instructor/coach instead of playing at least twenty-five days a month,” says Walker.
Walker has plenty to brag about. “In my 30+ year career, I’ve won over 40 junior events, 15 amateur titles, and 28 professional events,” he says. Last February, he played in the Northern Trust Open at Riviera CC on the PGA tour. The year prior, he was a cast member on Big Break Ireland, a reality television series that features golfers vying for $80,000 and two Tour exemptions. Recently, Walker’s South Mountain Community College team won the 2015 NJCAA National Championship shooting 30 under par.
This past June, Andy was awarded the Dave Williams National Coach of the Year Award, Presented by Golf Pride. This feat was accomplished in the midst of Walker starting a new company (U.S. Golf Combines) that helps high school players get their best and most trusted information into the hands of college coaches and coaching players on the PGA Tour—most notably Jason Gore.
Walker doesn’t play much anymore, but still keeps his game sharp. “I feel it’s important to be able to practice what I preach, if I’m coaching PGA Tour players and collegiate All-Americans then I need to be able to still play and hit the golf shots I did when I played on tour”. “You never want to get out of touch with the playing aspect of this game, it’s what sets me apart from most instructors and it’s the best way to keep learning myself”.
When he’s not golfing (albeit a rarity), Walker is a family man. He spends quality time with his son-7 year old son AJ-by bringing him to the course. He also enjoys other games and sporting events like playing basketball and watching his nephew, Lenny, play baseball.
At this point in his career, Walker has only one thing on his mind as he coaches his players “I love being able to share my experiences in this game at its highest level with players who aspire or are already at that level. My passion for the competitive side of this game has never waned, now I get to share in the success of others and that is what this game—and life—is all about”.
Playing Golf almost 20 times per month, Donald Ray Drain feels completely at home on the Jefferson District Park Golf Course near his home in Springfield, Va. Introduced to the game by a friend, Milton Douglas Woods, Drain took a very serious approach to learning the sport and has been a member of the USGA for over 14 years. Today, the 66-year old carries a handicap of 16.1.
Born in Leesville, Louisiana, Drain was a rambunctious country boy who grew up to love hunting and fishing. He attended Grambling State University and earned a B.S. Degree in Business Administration. He holds a certification as a Food Service Manager for Fairfax County public schools in transportation and, for several years, was the Account Manager at Washington Dulles airport.
In Drain’s professional career he has over 30 years of employment in the Airline Catering Industry and he has serviced a prominent list of customers, including British Airways. In his role at the Fairfax County Parks he performs the job of Closing Manager at Jefferson District Golf Course.
Drain is a member of the J&J Golf Club and holds the office of President. He founded the club in 2008 and has also served as its treasurer. His wife, Peggie, of 43 years, is a strong supporter of his leisure activities, while their daughter Samantha Rae enjoys both golf and tennis with her father.
“I enjoy playing golf for the friendships and competitions,” says Drain who won the 2011 International Defense Association Golf Classic at Old Hickory Golf Course (Woodbridge, Va). This past Monday, August 31, 2015, he came in second place in the annual four person scramble in Falls Church, VA.
“I took a golf lesson in 1977 with the Fairfax Parks Authority. It improved my swing and distance in driving the ball.” However, Drain confesses that his biggest challenge is in driving the ball. During his weekly team play this drawback is a constant disadvantage.
(Above) Donald Drain with his golfing buddies
“I teach Sunday School at my church, serve as a Preacher Steward, Steward Board President, participate with the Senior Choir, work as Superintendent of the Sunday School. I sometimes play percussions in the music ministry for my church.”
When Drain is not competing on the golf course, he enjoys playing percussion, guitar, tennis and racquetball and bowling. He also likes to travel, bike and does catering consulting.