Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club and Lodge in Orlando, Florida served up an extreme test for the top golfers in the world this past Sunday, with tough conditions usually saved for major championships. With the tournament being another designated PGA Tour event bringing out 27 of the top 30 players in the Official World Golf Ranking, it sure did not disappoint. Five players were tied at -8 with two to three holes to play. Kurt Kitayama survived a triple bogey on the 9th hole and took the lead with a birdie on the 17th hole, winning the tournament by one stroke with a score of -9. It was Kurt’s first win on the PGA Tour to go along with his two previous wins on the DP World Tour.
The main charitable beneficiary of the Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by Mastercard is the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation. Mastercard and The Arnold Palmer Invitational have raised millions of dollars for local charities since their partnership began in 2004. Arnold and Winnie Palmer encouraged fans, affectionately known as “Arnie’s Army”, to donate to children’s causes for decades. The Arnold and Winnie Palmer Foundation creates opportunities for children to live a “Life Well Played” through support of organizations such as Children’s Hospitals, The First Tee, and Canine Companions.
Get involved and volunteer at a PGA Tour event near you!
Although Arnold Palmer passed on in 2016 at the age of 87, his presence is still obviously very much felt around Bay Hill Club and Lodge. Since leasing the course in 1970 and buying it in 1975, Bay Hill as almost been as synonymous with Arnold Palmer as Latrobe Country Club, the course he grew up on. Probably the most endearing thing you hear said of Arnold Palmer, said again during the broadcast this past weekend, is that he treated others in a way he would want to be treated. He stated this trait, along with manners and politeness, were instilled in him by his father. We should always remember to teach our own children the same values.
Imagine a world where all of us follow Mr. Palmer’s example and put others before ourselves.
King Solomon prayed to God for wisdom to lead his people. In Proverbs, Solomon writes we should pursue a good name through righteousness and kindness over riches.
Look for opportunities to show kindness, love, empathy, and compassion to others today. Make this world a better place one encounter at a time.
Next week is THE PLAYERS Championship, which some have nicknamed the 5th major, from TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida!