Jack Nicklaus made a surprise visit at PGA HOPE National Golf & Wellness Week on Sunday. The longtime North Palm Beach resident and 18-time major champion participated in a putting contest as well as a fireside chat with Fox News anchor Bret Baier.
Nicklaus, joined by his wife, Barbara, the 2019 winner of the PGA of America’s Distinguished Service Award, is a Trustee of The PGA of America REACH Foundation — which hosted 19 veterans and two veteran squad leaders from Oct. 10-14 at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland.
The veterans, graduates of their local PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) programs, participated in advanced golf instruction from PGA of America professionals and wellness training from the Cohen Veterans Network — covering topics such as social media, public speaking, stress management and mental health.
“Our veterans have given so much for this country, and some have paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom and safety, so it’s an honor, alongside Barbara, to continue to support them through PGA HOPE National Golf & Wellness Week,” Nicklaus said in a statement. “Their courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment are the true embodiment of our nation. Supporting our veterans isn’t just our duty, it’s a privilege we should all cherish.”
Photos: Jack Nicklaus through the years
A $2 million commitment supporting PGA HOPE and the PGA of America REACH Foundation was made in Nicklaus’ honor from real estate investor and PGA of America REACH Foundation Trustee, David P. O’Connor.
According to a release, PGA HOPE, the flagship military program of the PGA of America REACH Foundation, is a six- to eight-week developmental curriculum taught by PGA of America Golf Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency. The program introduces golf to veterans and active duty military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being.