PGA of America Hosts PGA HOPE National Golf & Wellness Week – Honoring Veterans at Congressional Country Club, Including 4th PGA HOPE Ambassador from the Colorado Section, Zechariah Owens

Bryan is the Fifth PGA Works Fellow Since 2022 In the Colorado PGA

Larkspur, Colo . — The Colorado PGA is proud to celebrate its continued partnership with the Hole Hecklers, a one-of-a-kind golf entertainment group that blends comedy, camaraderie, and charitable giving to create unforgettable tournament experiences. This summer, the Hole Hecklers helped drive fundraising efforts for the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation, the charitable arm of the Colorado PGA dedicated to positively impacting lives through the game of golf. Through their on-course entertainment and creative fundraising initiatives, including a special opportunity involving a pair of donated Ryder Cup tickets, the Hole Hecklers helped generate an incredible $10,000 in support of the Foundation’s mission. Over the past three years, the Colorado PGA and the Hole Hecklers have partnered to bring laughter, energy, and purpose to tournaments across the Section and Foundation. Including many of our Section facilities through their member-guests and charity events. Their unique style of interactive comedy—set right on the course—creates memorable experiences for participants while raising critical funds for PGA REACH Colorado Foundation programs, which focus on Youth Development, Supporting Our Military, and Inclusion in golf. “We are thrilled with the impact that the Hole Hecklers have had on our fundraising efforts,” said Steven Bartkowski, CEO and Executive Director of the Colorado PGA and PGA REACH Colorado Foundation.“ Their ability to engage golfers in a fun and meaningful way has been a game-changer for our events, and the support they’ve generated is truly remarkable. The funds will go a long way in helping to support the numerous programs and initiatives that our Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals conduct through our Foundation.” With this latest initiative, the Hole Hecklers have raised over $26,000 for the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation in the past three years. The funds raised will support the junior golf, military, and inclusive programs of The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation, which annually serves over 15,000 people through the game of golf. The Hole Hecklers’ involvement has grown each year, and the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation is proud to recognize them as an invaluable partner in advancing the Foundation’s mission. To learn how the Hole Hecklers can provide a fresh, fun, and unique approach to your club or corporate events and fundraising, please reach out to Shane Nance of the Hole Hecklers. Not only will your guests and members have some laughs, but you will be making an impact in your communities. Learn More About the Hole Hecklers Email Shane Nance of Hole Hecklers About the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation PGA REACH Colorado is the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the Colorado PGA Section. Its mission is to positively impact lives through the game of golf, with a focus on youth, military, and inclusion programming. About the Hole Hecklers The Hole Hecklers are a team of comedians who bring laughter to the links by providing live entertainment at golf tournaments across the country. With their signature style of playful on-course commentary, they turn each event into a fun, memorable experience while raising funds for charitable organizations.

About the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation is a 501c3 public charity in Colorado that works daily to support our over 900 Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals to make a positive difference in our local communities. Programming tries to ensure that regardless of your age or background, cost will not inhibit one’s involvement and enjoyment of the game of golf. The mission of the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation is to positively impact the lives of youth, military, and diverse populations by enabling access to PGA of America Golf Professionals, PGA Sections, and the game of golf. Media Contact: Steven Bartkowski CEO/Executive Director Colorado PGA Section PGA REACH Colorado Foundation sbartkowski@pgahq.com

Golf with a purpose: $110K Raised for Local Programming, One Hero Honored

Welcome, Albert Duncan!

PGA HOPE Colorado (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) has achieved a momentous milestone—securing a coveted spot in the 2025 PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup. This prestigious national tournament, held in conjunction with the PGA Championship, celebrates the transformative power of golf in the lives of U.S. military veterans and active duty through PGA HOPE. The Colorado team’s selection is a testament to their dedication, perseverance, and the strength of the Colorado Section’s PGA HOPE program. PGA HOPE is a flagship initiative of the PGA of America and the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation, designed to introduce golf to veterans and active-duty military personnel as a way to enhance their physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. The program provides free adaptive golf instruction to veterans, creating an environment that fosters inclusion, camaraderie, and rehabilitation. For many participants, it’s not just about learning the game—it’s about finding a supportive community and building confidence to overcome personal challenges. Meet the PGA HOPE Colorado Team The Colorado team consists of five veterans from various branches of the United States military, all of whom earned their place by winning the 2024 PGA HOPE Colorado Cup. Representing the Section at this national event will be: Jordan LeBlanc, PGA (Army Veteran) – Serving as the team leader, Jordan LeBlanc has played a vital role in the PGA HOPE program since 2018. As a PGA Professional, and National PGA HOPE Trainer, he has trained and certified over 300 PGA Professionals across 15 different sections in the past three years. His leadership and commitment to veteran golf instruction have made a lasting impact. Jeremiah James (Army Veteran) – Despite severe shoulder, back, and neck injuries sustained during service, Jeremiah remains passionate about golf. His ability to adapt and compete serves as an inspiration, demonstrating how perseverance can overcome physical challenges. Erich Posdzich (Marine Corps Veteran) – For Erich, golf provides a sense of belonging and community, helping to replace the camaraderie often missed after military service. His dedication to the game reflects his passion for staying connected and engaged. Joshua Lee (Navy Veteran) – Golf has been an essential tool for Joshua in improving his mental well-being. After completing a mental health program, he turned to the sport as a therapeutic outlet. The Secretary’s Cup presents an opportunity for him to affirm his progress and play alongside supportive teammates. Paul Garcia (Air Force Veteran) – Transitioning from military to civilian life was a challenge for Paul, but he found purpose and structure in golf. His methodical approach to the game has helped him regain focus and stability, proving that golf is more than just a sport—it’s a lifeline.

Welcome, Josh Knipp!

Welcome, Trevor Miller!