Today is June 3, 2026, and here in Florida, we’re celebrating something pretty special—the rich golf history of the Pensacola area! With a legacy that boasts multiple PGA Tour winners and state champions, it’s no surprise that USA TODAY is shining a spotlight on some of the top athletes from this region as part of its 250th anniversary series.
Among the notable nominees are some heavyweights in the golf world. Bubba Watson, a two-time Masters champion, and Jerry Pate, the U.S. Open winner from 1976, have made quite the names for themselves. But they’re not alone! The list of golf talent from the Pensacola area is impressive, featuring alumni from Milton High School like Heath Slocum and Boo Weekley, both of whom have also seen success on the PGA Tour. It seems like this town has a knack for producing talent!
Legendary Golf Figures from Pensacola
When you think about golf in Pensacola, you can’t overlook the ten nominees for the best golf figures from the area. For instance, there’s Robin Dezarn, who was a back-to-back 3A state champion in ’94 and ’95 and later made waves as the SEC Golfer of the Year in 1999 while playing at Auburn. Then you have Joe Durant, a three-time NAIA All-American from Escambia, who racked up three PGA Tour wins and set a record with a staggering 34-under at the 2001 Bob Hope Chrysler Classic.
Howard Fletcher turned Escambia into a golfing powerhouse in the 1960s, leading the boys’ team to a state title in 1963 and guiding the girls to four straight championships from ’62 to ’65. And let’s not forget Downing Gray, a Pensacola native who graduated in ’57 and won seven straight tournaments at Florida State. He stood out as the low amateur at the Masters not once but twice—in 1965 and 1967. Talk about impressive!
Then there’s the likes of Jerry Pate, who not only won the U.S. Amateur and the Eisenhower Trophy but also the U.S. Open. His eight PGA Tour wins are a testament to his skill. And we can’t skip over Bubba Watson, who, besides his 12 PGA Tour wins, reached No. 2 in the Official World Golf Rankings back in 2015. He’s a lefty powerhouse known for his incredible driving distance, often exceeding 350 yards!
PGA Tour Highlights
Speaking of the PGA Tour, it’s worth mentioning that the main tour has its headquarters right here in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. It’s the biggest golf tour in the U.S., with a whopping $400 million in total prize money as of 2025! The PGA Tour has evolved since its split from the PGA of America in 1968, focusing on tournament players and creating a more competitive environment. They’ve introduced “Signature Events” to ensure high-stakes competition, which is a direct response to alternative leagues like LIV Golf.
With changes in the golf landscape, the PGA Tour continues to adapt. It’s fascinating to see how it’s grown to include various levels, like the Korn Ferry Tour and the Champions Tour. These developments keep the excitement alive for players and fans alike.
As we keep our eyes on Pensacola’s golf scene, it’s thrilling to witness the legacy of these athletes. From Bubba Watson’s incredible career and community involvement—like opening a sweet spot café in Pensacola—to the achievements of others on this impressive nominee list, it’s clear that golf in this area is not just a sport; it’s a way of life. You can check out the full article about these golf figures here.
And speaking of local updates, did you hear? Palafox Street has officially reopened to vehicular traffic between Garden and Main Streets! More reasons to love this vibrant community.