This proud young man, in patriotic colors, is Austin Escamilla. He's been playing golf for a couple of years now, and is sometimes even referred to as a prodigy. Before Austin ever entered a competition he'd spent countless hours at golf tournaments with his dad, observing players like Camilo Villegas (who was playing on the Nationwide tour at the time) and absorbing the competitive golf spirit. A few days ago he took first place at his club's NTPGA event and has thus qualified for the regional championship.
Austin's dad is Al Escamilla, the Internet entrepreneur and social media evangelist who founded Cocktail Match. Al and his wife Krista, an AP Award winning journalist and CBS7 news anchor, live golf fully... with Austin and their three other children. Al has penned some of the most compelling posts I've read on the challenges and rewards of parenting aspiring golfers, including one on his son's recent victory.
Austin has certainly been inspired by his parents and their dedication to his pursuit of golf, and he's following in the footsteps of some extremely impressive pros too: Sean O'Hair, Hunter Mahan and Chad Campbell are just a few of the many NTPGA players who've gone on to become international golf champions.
Wishing Austin the best of luck with the regional championship and beyond.
Sure his shirt's untucked, but Austin Escamilla already outdresses Woody Austin, and no doubt gives better interviews.
ReplyDeleteAustin's mom and dad must be very proud of him. The Escamilla family and others like them plus organizations like NTPGA are helping to keep the sport alive and meaningful. Thanks Krista, Al and Austin.
ReplyDeleteMy kids just don't have the patience for golf...wish they did...maybe someday. :\
ReplyDeleteAt first the best part of golf for kids is the cart ride. Then they enjoy hitting the ball a few times and sinking a putt or two. After awhile they actually start to learn the game--the swing, the rules, and the patience.
ReplyDeleteThis summer it has been amazing to watch my kids' golf progress. I'm so impressed with both of them for different reasons.
Congrats and good luck to Austin!
I wonder if any girls competed at his club's event? Last year my daughter was the only girl in ANY age group at our course's junior event. I'm hoping a few more will join her this year.
Patricia, Thank you for the GREAT post regarding our son Austin. I realize i am biased but golf truly has helped make him a great person. Heather, girls golf continues to be a challenge. Our PGA chapter has separated the 7 to 9 year olds and now the girls have their own division. In the past it was a co-ed division. My daughter, Aspen, is 7 and has begun competing this year and she is having a blast. I'm trying to come up with some fun and creative ways for her to practice without realizing it!
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