The Hike | Kevin Van Valkenburg

Support Kevin and his efforts at National Links Trust’s ‘The Hike at East Potomac’ on Monday, June 9th

When I was growing up in Missoula, Montana, my father would get up every Sunday at 5 a.m. and start furiously dialing the phone. There was only one 18-hole course in town, Larchmont Golf Course, and you had to make reservations a week in advance if you wanted a foursome, so he would wait by the phone at 6 a.m., when the tee times for the following week were released, ready to pounce. 

He wasn't always successful. But he would try, every week, because it was our only option. We couldn't afford a country club membership, and he and my mom wanted my sister and I to be exposed to the game, even if what primarily got us excited at that age was sitting on their laps and driving the carts. 

It would be years before the game truly grabbed me, but public golf was essential in shaping what I loved about the sport. I didn't play in high school, I played the game only casually among friends in college, but in my adult life, golf has become not only my profession (I'm now the Editorial Director at No Laying Up after spending 11 years at ESPN), it's become the activity I love doing the most with my friends, my wife and also my daughters.

I have played golf around the world, at some of the most exclusive clubs on earth, but nothing makes me happier than having a Sunday tee time with my regular foursome on a public track in the Baltimore or Washington D.C. area. I love the way the beer tastes after (or during) the round, the way the holes feel like old friends, and the opportunity the game offers to meet new and different people. 

I have no idea how my Hike is going to go. I am already lamenting the training I wish I would have done more of. But I am determined to try my best, just like my father did back in the day when he'd be ready to pounce on the first tee time available. I hope whatever funds I can raise, it will help pay it forward and continue to keep municipal golf affordable and open to everyone, even if they're just trying to find a space to lure their kids into the game by (cautiously) letting them drive a cart.

- Kevin

WAYS TO Support

Supporters of Kevin’s efforts have the option to donate in an upfront donation and/or pledge their donation based on number of holes played, birdies or eagles made, and more. Please use the below buttons to contribute. Thank you!