Swinging Through Life: A 20-Year Journey from Bermuda to Phoenix - A Golfer's Path to Success

Twenty years ago, I made a decision that changed the course of my life. I left the small, sun-soaked island of Bermuda. Trading ocean breezes for desert winds and golf dreams for a reality I could never have imagined. 

Leaving home was thrilling and terrifying, but deep down, I knew there was more out there for me — a bigger stage, new challenges, and opportunities I couldn't grasp if I stayed in my comfort zone. 

Today, as I look back on my journey, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me, the people I've met, and the communities that have supported me.

This post isn't just a reflection on where I've been; it's a celebration of what Bermuda gave me (10 fun facts), what I've learned from this incredible journey (10 lessons), and where I'm headed next. 

Spoiler alert: It involves giving back to the golf community, which has given me so much. But first, let's take a trip down memory lane.

Ten Fun Facts About Golf in Bermuda and the Island's History:

1. Golfing Heritage: Bermuda's golfing history dates back to the 1920s when it became one of the first islands in the Caribbean to boast championship courses.

2. Fairways of Fame: Mid Ocean Club, a classic designed by Charles Blair Macdonald, is consistently ranked among the top 100 golf courses in the world.

3. Turtle Hill Triumphs: The Turtle Hill Golf Club, famous for its stunning par-3 layout, hosts the annual Grey Goose World Par 3 Championship, attracting golfers from around the globe.

4. Amateur Legacy: Bermuda is home to the Bermuda Amateur Championship. First played in the 1920s, it is one of the oldest golf tournaments in the Caribbean. (2010 winner)

5. Golf and Greats: Legendary golfers like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus have teed it up in Bermuda, further cementing the island's reputation as a premier golf destination.

6. Shell's Wonderful World of Golf: Airing on January 14, 1967, took viewers on a scenic journey through the island of Bermuda while showcasing a golfing clash between Tony Lema and Peter Alliss.

7. Golf and Culture: Bermuda's golf courses are not just about sport — they're a cultural experience, blending the island's British heritage with laid-back island vibes.

8. Homegrown Talent: Despite its small size, Bermuda has produced world-class golfers who've competed on the global stage, showing that the island punches above its weight.

9. Bermuda Championship: A professional golf tournament on the PGA Tour that debuted in 2019 as part of the 2020 season. The tournament is played at the Port Royal Golf Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, in Southampton Parish, Bermuda.

10. Royal Connections: Bermuda’s golf courses have attracted royalty over the years. The Duke of Windsor, formerly King Edward VIII, was an avid golfer who played on the island’s courses during his visits to Bermuda in the 1940s.

Ten Lessons I Learned from the Journey and Maturing from the Boy with Dreams:

1. Embrace Change: Moving from Bermuda to Arizona taught me that growth happens outside your comfort zone. You must be willing to step into the unknown to find your true potential.

2. Perseverance Pays Off: The journey hasn't always been smooth, but persistence has been my greatest ally. Those who keep swinging eventually find their rhythm, whether on the course or in life.

3. Mentors Matter: I've been fortunate to have incredible mentors along the way who've shared their wisdom, challenged me, and believed in me, even when I didn't believe in myself.

4. Adaptability is Key: Life in Arizona is a world apart from Bermuda, but adapting to new environments has helped me grow both as a golfer and a person.

5. Passion Fuels Purpose: My love for golf has driven everything I've done. It has guided my decisions, fueled my career, and brought me to where I am today.

6. Cherish Community: From the close-knit golf circles in Bermuda to the expansive networks in Arizona, I've learned that the people you surround yourself with make all the difference.

7. Stay Humble: Success is a journey, not a destination. Remembering where I came from keeps me grounded and grateful for every opportunity.

8. Give Back: I'm blessed with so much, and I've realized that true success is about paying it forward — whether through mentorship, sharing knowledge, or building community.

9. Embrace the Journey: It's easy to get caught up in the destination, but the absolute joy comes from the journey itself—the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

10. Dream Big: The boy from Bermuda had big dreams, and while the journey has taken unexpected turns, I've learned that with hard work, anything is possible.

Reflecting on these past twenty years, one thing is crystal clear: the Arizona golf community has become my second home. It's where I found my footing, honed my skills, and discovered a network of passionate, driven individuals who share my love for the game. 

This community has given me many opportunities, friendships, and the chance to grow personally and professionally. Now, it's time to give back.

That's why I'm launching The Cactus Club, a new golf community right here in Arizona. This isn't just another golf club — it's a tight-knit group of enthusiasts passionate about the game and eager to connect with like-minded individuals. 

Through member events, exclusive stories, insider tips, and more, The Cactus Club is all about celebrating golf in an authentic, fun, and engaging way.

Here's to the next chapter — building community, sharing experiences, and continuing the journey that started on a small island 20 years ago. Bermuda will always be where my story began, but Arizona is where it continues to unfold. And I couldn't be more excited about what's next.