Urban Golf Course to be Sponsored by PGA Imagine jumping into a project where you had little expertise or knowledge of just what exactly you were about to get yourself into. That’s exactly what happened to Kansas City native Chris Harris when he set out to build a golf course for the kids of his neighborhood.

A Vision, and a Limited Golfing Background

When Harris embarked on his journey, all he really had was a vision – and 20 tons of sand. For the most part, he never really played golf. Initially, Harris just wanted to put nine holes of putting greens near his childhood home, in the middle of a neighborhood surrounded by vacant lots and boarded-up windows. Those plans quickly changed.

Expansion

As the project gained notoriety, the course design expanded to a larger chip-and-putt course. Not only would the new design overtake Harris’ childhood home, but it would also take up half the block. To expand the project, Harris needed to find support, donors, and investors. Harris was shocked to receive support from the PGA, who has been trying to bring the wonderful game of golf to black and underprivileged youth.

Harris told the Kansas City Star, I was always looking for a sponsor. It never crossed my mind that the PGA would call. Where would you ever find that the PGA is building a golf course in the hood?”

The executive director and CEO of the Midwest PGA, Brad Demo, said “We’re super thrilled with the project and certainly doing what we can as an association to help. Chris’ heart is just unbelievable. What makes it unique is, number one – the location – to take a property that some people might say is not the best. It’s going to be a beautiful park.”

Harris has secured other support as well. He has secured an advertising agency, and a global architecture, engineering, and design firm based out of Kansas City that will help him design the course. Harris has also secured the support of a law firm, which will help him establish the course as a nonprofit organization.

A Great Hobby for Young Children and Teens

When building the nine holes of putting greens, Harris initially did so to provide an outlet for children who otherwise wouldn’t have had access to sports venues. Harris said, “Any kid in that neighborhood can get up in the morning, put on their shoes and go play golf. Everybody’s going to have a chance.”

If there is a child or teen in your life searching for a niche, enroll them in Westlake’s Junior Club. The Westlake Junior Golf Program is open to boys and girls age 8 – 17. All skill levels are welcomed as program participants attend group lessons, swing and short game clinics, a rules and etiquette clinic, evening contests, and weekly tournaments. Not only will the program provide outdoor exercise, but it will also teach self-control, discipline, and management of emotions. Learn more and register by visiting the Junior Club website today!