CHASING A DREAM: Memoirs of a Golf Professional

by Gaines Beard

This is a story of a young man who, at the age of twenty, ventured off to become an assistant golf professional in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in the early 1970's. His desire to work in the golf industry as a club professional burned deeply in his soul.As fate would have it, after five years, he was at a crossroads in his career; continue on as a golf professional or change course by testing the waters of professional golf.This is one man's story that could be told by countless professionals...Chasing A Dream.

177 pages, Paperback

Published February 14, 2024

Reviews

[Tama · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you turned on the television late in the day on Saturday or Sunday and stumbled upon the week's PGA tour? The courses are beautiful. The players look like they have it all together. The crowds cheer for them. And we always hear about the big purse for the winner.

Now let's have a reality check. We are seeing a very small part of the golfing industry on these broadcasts. The pros make those drives look so easy, with their caddy standing off to the side and their spouses at the 18th hole to congratulate the winner. But is it really like that?

In this book, Gaines Beard shares his personal experience of "Chasing a Dream: Memoirs of a Golf Professional". You will hear the reality of chasing the dream to the pros and his personal journey. But the book is so much more. Personally, I am a very amateur golfer, but this book gave me insight and courage to understand that the way I play is OK. I am enjoying the game. I am no where near a pro level, but the friendships, support, and enjoyment of the game comes from deep inside.

Just in time for Mothers or Father's Day, this 158 page book would be a great gift for the man or woman in your life. Beard's personal voice shines through his writing as sincere. He shares his victories and the losses. Today's society is all about achieving your dream and following your passion. After reading this book, the reader will understand that it is OK to follow your dream and appreciate that not achieving can also be a good outcome. (See Chapter 13: The Playoff). Beard eventually returned to amateur status and continued to play, earning a third place finish in the National Walter Hagen Cancer Championship in Walt Disney World. He didn't give up on golf and has now written a memoir that will inspire many, regardless of their dream.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found Chasing a Dream: Memoirs of a Golf Professional by Gaines Beard, to be a motivational and inspirational read. I have never golfed, but this book almost made me want to try! I felt like I was taken back in time to Gaines early years and I was carrying a bag right beside him. It was also a fun read in learning all the twists and the people he has met over the years. At least one person was quite a surprise (and no, I am not revealing who it was, you will have to read the book to find out!) As much as I enjoyed reading this book, I do believe that a golfer will love it even more. What an adventure Gaines has had and I truly suspect that he is still golfing and enjoying all of these memories (and maybe even making a few more.) This book also reflects that Gaines has always been a very nice person with a good soul.