As Billy Horschel climbed the ladder of success, he never lost sight of the sport that gave him so much. This has been evident in his dedication to fostering the growth of golf and the opportunities it creates for others.
Billy Horschel’s APGA Invitational
For the third year in a row, the Billy Horschel APGA Invitational was held at the Concession Golf Club in Bradenton, Florida. This event provided a platform for 18 of the top APGA Tour players to compete, network, and engage with key industry leaders and sponsors. Unlike many celebrities who merely lend their names to events, Horschel went the extra mile, offering his personal contacts to players and showing unwavering commitment to their success.
Why Horschel Chose to Support APGA
Why did Horschel choose the APGA as his way of giving back? His instructor, Todd Anderson, revealed that it was because of Horschel’s genuine care for the people he interacts with and his desire to make a difference. Horschel’s aim is to see minority professional golfers succeed and be a part of the PGA Tour, helping develop junior golfers along the way.
Horschel’s Motivations
When asked, Horschel shared that his motivation to give back was multifaceted. He acknowledged the struggles golfers faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and he related to the financial difficulties of golfers like Willie Mack, whose family, like his own, was not well-off. Horschel recognized that if it weren’t for his opportunities and sponsorships, he could have been in the same shoes as the APGA members.
Promoting Inclusivity in Golf
In addition to helping golfers overcome financial struggles, Horschel is also passionate about making golf more inclusive. He believes that there is room for growth in bringing more minorities into golf and changing the perception of the sport. Supporting the APGA and its members is one way he is working towards this goal.
Impact on Black Golfers
Currently, there are only three Black golfers on the PGA Tour: Tiger Woods, Cameron Champ, and Joseph Bramlett. Horschel’s initiatives, like his event, are helping to create more opportunities for Black golfers to rise in the ranks of the sport. Two-time winner of Horschel’s event, Willie Mack III, is a testament to this, having earned his Korn Ferry Tour card in December.
Horschel’s Personal Interactions with APGA Members
Horschel’s deep involvement with the APGA players extends beyond his event. He built personal relationships with the players, like Mack and Kaimaiu Johnson, and played a part in supporting their journeys in golf. His advice to Mack during an injury period proved to be vital for the golfer’s comeback and success.
Future Plans for the APGA Invitational
Horschel is not planning to stop any time soon. He has ambitions to continue growing his APGA event, increasing the prize money and making it bigger and better with each passing year. His dedication to the sport and its players is a testament to his commitment to changing the face of golf and creating more opportunities for all.
By: Adam Schupak
Title: Billy Horschel’s Commitment to Growing and Giving Back to Golf
Sourced From: golfweek.usatoday.com/2023/10/19/billy-horschel-apga-invitational-giving-back/
Published Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2023 15:53:38 +0000
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