Three local high school golfers are getting the chance of a life time. Not only do they get to play Pebble Beach, the No. 1 public course in the country, but they get to do it on live television while playing with the pros. And it's all because of the local First Tee programs in Fort Smith and Fayetteville.
“It's going to be incredible to play on a course that has so many major championships,” said Christian Griffith.”
“I can’t wait to get out there and meet some of them,” said Michael Cogan. “Just being on the course would be amazing, let alone playing it.”
“I think I'll be more excited than nervous,” said Addison Mitchell.
They're not nervous, at least for now. On Sept. 27 they'll be playing in the First Tee Open, an official tournament on the Champions Tour. For three days each player will be paired with a proven professional winner.
“That might be nerve wracking a little bit,” said Mitchell. “But I think we'll have fun.”
Addison Mitchell is going to be a sophomore at Southside. She just finished playing in the Kids Team World Championship. She finished as the third place American.
“Can't wait,” she said. “It can't get here quick enough.”
All three players were picked by the First Tee because of their success on the course along with their volunteer work in the community. Christian Griffith is going into his junior year at Greenwood.
“Factor in that TV is going to be there,” said Griffith. “We're working with an actual professional. It's going to be interesting.”
Then there's Michael Cogan, a senior at Bentonville.
“It's going to be unreal,” said Cogan. “I don't think I'll realize how great it is until I get there.”
And no matter how well they play, it'll be an experience they never forget.