The PGA TOUR's Honorary Observer Program is Much More Than Your Average Walk
By Carson Racich
NAPLES, Fla. - Walking inside the ropes with professional golfers is a unique and special experience that offers a deep look into the world of professional golf. As an honorary observer, you're not just a spectator, but rather a participant in the action, sharing the same space and witnessing the game from a perspective that few ever get to experience. For one lucky duo, they were left speechless.
“People don't get this opportunity. Look at my son. How many 11-year olds get this opportunity? Close to none,” Jeffery Quinn, Honorary Observer emphasized. “There was so much interaction from all players towards us, we felt like we were wanted there, it was amazing.”
From the moment you step onto the first tee and are welcomed into the inner circle of the players' world, there's a feeling of excitement and honor that fills the air. You're surrounded by the energy of the game but on a higher level.
One of the most remarkable aspects of walking inside the ropes is the proximity to the players themselves. You're just steps away from some of the greatest golfers in the world as they strategize, analyze their shots, and execute their game plans in hopes of victory. Being so close allows you to appreciate the skill, passion, and focus required to compete at the highest level most could only dream of.
“We saw he [Micheal Allen] had a couple of chances for birdie but just missed. The scores don’t always show but I'll tell ya, he was close,” said Quinn. “Even when he missed a shot that he should have made or tweaked his back on 17, he was still smiling. Crazy.”
Moreover, walking inside the ropes provides a deeper understanding of the intricacies of the game. For amateur golfers, they get to see firsthand how players navigate the course, read the greens, and adapt to challenging conditions. It's a masterclass in golf that you simply can't get from watching on television or sitting in the grandstands.
In addition to getting to meet these professionals personally and spend the day with them, perhaps the most memorable part of being an Honorary Observer is the opportunity to create lasting memories with loved ones. For Quinn, whose birthday aligned with the Chubb Classic, it was a day he will never forget. Bringing his little boy along for the experience added an extra layer of joy and excitement to the day.
“I knew something was going to happen when I saw the look on Melissa Scheffler’s (Chubb Regional Executive Officer) face, after I accidentally mentioned we were walking on my birthday,” said Quinn. I knew I screwed up – HA.”
As they walked alongside the pros, father and son shared moments that would stay with them forever. They cheered on their favorite players, exchanged high-fives, and shook hands as if they were players themselves. It was a bonding experience like no other, made even more special by the shared love of the game.
“We were literally standing off the edge of the 18th green getting to take our hats off and shake the players hands,” Quinn eagerly said. “I mean come on, who gets to do that.”
For the father, seeing the wonder and excitement in his son's eyes was the greatest gift of all. He knew that these were the moments that would shape his son's love for golf and create memories that they would cherish for years to come. As they walked hand in hand, soaking in the sights and sounds of the tournament, he couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this special day with his little boy.
“Micheal Allen is an amazing person. He interacted with my son all day,” Quinn said. “I'll never forget how he put Jamie in his cart and drove him down the fairway, or how he teased and grabbed snacks for him.”
Despite walking the course, the Quinn boys were surprised after their round the player scoring by sponsors and players with a birthday cake to celebrate his 50th birthday. And to add a cherry on top, Quinns twin brother and nephew were right on time to celebrate the moment along with the professionals.
“Having my twin brother and nephew here to witness this with us, it couldn't have happened at a better time. This tournament really is special. They make us feel special.”
In the end, walking inside the ropes with professional golfers is more than just a VIP experience—it's a chance to connect with the game on a deeper level, to witness greatness up close, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. And for Quinn and his 11 year old son, it was the perfect way to celebrate a birthday and share their love of golf in the most unforgettable way possible.
Even Micheal Allen mentioned how he loves partaking in the activities.
“It’s always great to see the fans, especially the kids out here. They're having fun and learning respect for the game,” said Allen. ““Hopefully they can take something from today to inspire them.”
