P.J. Boatwright III, a lifelong lover of golf, recently spoke to a group of young adults at the USGA Golf Museum and Library in New Jersey. Boatwright was sharing stories about his father, P.J. Boatwright Jr., a prominent figure in the golf world, and the impact he had on the game. Boatwright Jr. was an accomplished amateur golfer and later became an executive at the USGA, where he played a key role in revising the Rules of Golf in 1984. After his passing in 1991, the USGA established the P.J. Boatwright Jr. Internship Program in his honor.
The P.J. Boatwright Jr. Internship Program has been a valuable stepping stone for many young individuals looking to pursue careers in golf administration and other sports. Anna Kittelson, a former intern, credits the program for giving her the opportunity to work in adaptive golf. Emily Furderer, another former intern, now works with the PGA Tour as a senior manager of community and inclusion. The program is open to individuals of all ages and backgrounds, providing scholarships to candidates looking to change careers later in life.
Boatwright himself did not pursue a professional golf career, instead working in magazine publishing and later as a financial adviser. He has since reinvented himself as a musician and spends his retirement writing and performing songs. Despite not playing golf professionally, Boatwright’s passion for the game has never wavered. His sons, Graham and Jack, both qualified for the U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championship, with Boatwright serving as Graham’s caddie while his daughter, Casey, caddies for Jack.
For the Boatwright family, golf is a way of life that connects them to a larger community of golf enthusiasts and professionals. Boatwright’s wife, Cathy, a former USGA rules official, is also involved in the sport. The family’s involvement in golf serves as a tribute to Boatwright Jr.’s legacy and his love for the game. Boatwright expressed his gratitude for the success of the internship program and the positive impact it has had on many individuals pursuing careers in golf.
As a writer for GOLF Magazine, Josh Sens has been a longtime contributor to the golf world. His work covers a variety of topics related to golf, food, and travel, showcasing his deep passion for the sport. Through his articles and contributions, Sens continues to share stories that celebrate the rich history and community of golf. With a focus on highlighting the people and programs that shape the game, Sens brings a unique perspective to the world of golf writing.
