Every once in a while, life presents us with unexpected opportunities that we never could have imagined. As a golf enthusiast and a dedicated caddie from Saint Louis, Missouri, I had the incredible privilege of caddying for the talented Norwegian golfer, Viktor Hovland, during the practice round of the BMW Championship at Olympia Fields Country Club.

The BMW Championship is one of the most prestigious events on the PGA Tour, part of the FedEx Cup Playoffs. Being selected to caddie at this level was something I never expected — a moment made possible by the Western Golf Association and the Evans Scholars Foundation, organizations that have shaped my life in immeasurable ways.

Inside the Ropes

Walking alongside Viktor Hovland during the practice round was an education in professional golf. Every aspect of his preparation was meticulous — from studying the grain of the greens to mapping the subtle contours that television simply cannot capture. The precision with which he approached each shot was remarkable.

What struck me most was not just his technical ability, but his demeanor. Viktor carried himself with a quiet confidence, a warmth that made the experience feel less like work and more like a shared love of the game. Between shots, he would ask about my caddying background, my time as an Evans Scholar, and what courses I loved most.

Evans Scholar caddies at sunset on the course
Evans Scholar caddies at Olympia Fields during the BMW Championship.
Beyond the technical aspects of the game, Viktor's dedication, discipline, and unwavering positive mindset were truly inspiring.

He exemplified the qualities of a true professional — showcasing resilience, adaptability, and composure in the face of challenges. It was a masterclass in both golfing skills and the mental fortitude required to succeed at the highest level.

Caddies talking at golden hour on the course
Golden hour on the course — the moments between the shots.

The Evans Scholar Connection

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Western Golf Association and the Evans Scholars Foundation for making this incredible experience possible. Their commitment to the growth and development of young caddies is truly commendable. The opportunities provided by the WGA and the Evans Scholars Foundation are invaluable — not only in terms of the golfing experiences but in shaping the lives and aspirations of caddies around the country.

Caddying for Viktor Hovland in the BMW Championship practice round was an unforgettable experience that exceeded all my expectations. It reinforced my passion for the game and reminded me why the caddie yard is where some of life's greatest lessons are learned.