Fire in the Hole! offers an unflinching, yet inspirational, account of Bob Parsons’ humble upbringing to his meteoric rise as one of early tech’s pioneers

NEW YORK, May 7, 2024 – GoDaddy, PXG, and YAM Worldwide founder Bob Parsons today made his literary debut with the release of his first book, FIRE IN THE HOLE! THE UNTOLD STORY OF MY TRAUMATIC LIFE AND EXPLOSIVE SUCCESS (May 7; Forefront Books). For all those who think they know this American entrepreneur and philanthropist, the book is filled with untold tales and revelations from an optimist who dreamed big and imagined all that was possible – even if the cards seemed stacked against him. The book is now available through all major retailers.

“It is honest, hilarious, outrageous and raw. This is a story of how I started with absolutely nothing and made over $3 billion,” said Bob Parsons, who is embarking on a national book tour that will bring him through several major U.S. cities, including New York, Dallas, and Chicago.

A descendant of coal miners, Parsons grew up in the 1950s in a blue-collar, working-class neighborhood in East Baltimore. His early experiences reveal an innate resiliency that got him through a harrowing tour of duty in Vietnam as a United States Marine and the early years at his first company, Parsons Technology. The book goes on to share the bold business decisions that would eventually make him one of the wealthiest people in the world, with a net worth of $3.6 billion according to the Forbes 400 2023 list of the richest people in America.

“As the title of this book, Fire in the Hole! suggests, Bob has dodged a lot of grenades in life, but it was more than luck that led him to where he is today,” Carlton W. Kent, 16th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, stated. “Bob’s story touched me personally, and I enthusiastically recommend this book to others to gain insight on their own personal journey to reaching success in life.”

Parsons also delves into his experience with PTSD, brought on by early childhood trauma and his combat duty in Vietnam, and the efforts he has made to treat it with novel therapeutic uses of psychedelics, including psilocybin, which finally brought him “home.” This is particularly timely, given recent efforts to gain FDA approval for the use of the drug MDMA, and the efforts of several states, including California, to legalize psychedelic therapy. Parsons recently testified in his home state of Arizona in support of the legalization of psychedelic-assisted therapy. He has also donated millions to research and therapist training in this area.

In addition to his business success, Parsons writes about his shift toward philanthropy in 2012, when he and his wife Renee established The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation to reach low-income and underserved populations, marginalized communities, and causes often overlooked or underfunded by mainstream philanthropy. The Foundation focuses on the areas of youth and education, health and home, military and first responders, and the American dream. Since inception, the foundation has donated more than $300 million to 96 charities.

He’s an everyman who has made it. He’s authentic. And his reflections on life, business, and giving back are heartbreaking, heartwarming, humorous, and inspiring.

“Bob Parsons is an American original. He is a visionary and inspiration and has the stories to prove it. Fire in the Hole! is as interesting and outrageous as the man himself,” actor, producer and author Rob Lowe concluded.

To learn more about Bob Parsons or to purchase Fire in the Hole! visit, bobparsons.com/fire-in-the-hole.

About Bob Parsons

Bob Parsons lives in Scottsdale, Arizona, where, among other things, he owns one of the country’s largest Harley-Davidson dealerships. Parsons is the CEO and founder of YAM Worldwide, which is home to his entrepreneurial ventures in the fields of motorcycles, golf, real estate, finance, marketing, innovation, and philanthropy. He is a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam veteran and a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. He attended college at the University of Baltimore on the G.I. Bill and graduated magna cum laude. His alma mater presented him with an honorary doctorate in 2008 and named him Distinguished Entrepreneur in 2010.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (November 10, 2022) – PXG Founder and CEO Bob Parsons is a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam War Veteran and a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. As a veteran owned company, PXG is proud to pay tribute to our nation’s finest and commemorate the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) Birthday and Veterans Day this holiday season.

Standing apart from other military branches, the U.S. Marine Corps is the only branch of service to commemorate its birthday. In honor of its 247^th year, and in celebration of Veterans Day, Parsons has released his annual U.S. Marine Corps Birthday Salute.

Parsons has long made his military roots a cornerstone of his businesses and philanthropy. For the eleventh consecutive year, The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation and PXG are honoring these anniversaries by partnering with Semper Fi & America’s Fund (The Fund) to launch the annual Double Down for Veterans Match Campaign. Issuing the challenge during his tribute video, Parsons announced the companies will once again match dollar-for-dollar donations made to The Fund up to $10 million.

Shedding light on PTSD, the moving address reshares Parsons’ personal experience in the Vietnam War and the impact the debilitating disease has had on him, his family, and so many other great American heroes.

“Casualties that occur on the battlefield are both seen and unseen, especially when it comes to PTSD,” said PXG Founder & CEO Bob Parsons. “The Fund ensures combat wounded, critically ill, and injured service members, veterans, and their families have the support and financial assistance needed to help heal and move toward lifelong recovery. It’s an important mission and one I’m proud to support with a 10 million dollar match this year.”

To further honor the upcoming anniversaries and salute America’s military service members, PXG is pleased to release its first official licensed USMC® branded hat. Made in the USA from USA-sourced fabric, the PXG X USMC^TM Hat proudly showcases the branch’s logo – a symbol of strength and leadership – front and center in this all-new design. Hats will be available for purchase online and in-store starting on November 14, 2022.

PXG will also host a special Veterans Day event at PXG Houston on November 12, 2022. The company invites all active duty and military veterans to attend the holiday celebration. Guests will gain exclusive early access to the PXG X USMC Hat, view PXG Apparel’s new Heroes Collection, and enjoy on-site club customizations, prizes, All-American BBQ, and more.

From its MOS-inspired club naming convention and military iconography incorporated in its club and apparel designs to a focus on serving our nation’s finest, PXG is proud to be a veteran owned, American company. To learn more about PXG, visit www.pxg.com. 

ABOUT PARSONS XTREME GOLF

Founded by entrepreneur and self-proclaimed golf nut Bob Parsons, PXG embodies his belief that every new product – from golf clubs to sport fashion apparel – should be markedly better. Every innovation should noticeably improve your performance. And every moment of impact should elevate your enjoyment. 

Today, PXG offers a complete lineup of right- and left-handed golf clubs, including drivers, fairway woods, hybrids, irons, wedges, and putters, as well as high-performance, sport fashion apparel and accessories. 

PXG’s professional staff includes Jason Kokrak, Joel Dahmen, Zach Johnson, Paul Barjon, Nicolas Echavarria, Michael Gligic, James Hahn, Jim Herman, Sung Kang, David Lipsky, Luke List, Justin Lower, Henrik Norlander, Seth Reeves, Kyle Stanley, Hudson Swafford, Cameron Tringale, Kyle Westmoreland, Celine Boutier, Austin Ernst, Mina Harigae, Vivian Hou, Yu-Sang Hou, Megan Khang, Christina Kim, Gina Kim, Katherine Kirk, Brittany Lang, Gerina Mendoza, Ryann O’Toole, Jennifer Song, and Mariah Stackhouse. 

About Semper Fi & America’s Fund:

Semper Fi & America’s Fund was started in 2003 by military spouses who immediately jumped in to provide bedside support to wounded and injured service members returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Operated today by those same military spouses and now considered one of our nation’s most trusted charities, The Fund includes a nationwide staff of patriotic veterans, community members, and volunteers, and their model of creating lifelong relationships between military families and their team is completely unique among veteran nonprofits. Learn more at: https://thefund.org.

About The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation:

The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation offers support to nonprofit organizations successfully working to empower, educate, nurture, and nourish people during what is often the darkest time of their lives. Founded in 2012 by philanthropists and business leaders Bob and Renee Parsons to provide hope and life-changing assistance to the country’s most vulnerable populations, The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation offers critical funding at critical times to those in need. The Foundation’s giving is driven by the core belief that all people – regardless of race, religion, roots, economic status, sexual orientation or gender identity – deserve access to quality healthcare, education and a safe place to call home. Follow @WeDealInHope on social media or visit TBRPF.org to learn more about partner organizations and the important work being done in the community.

PXG is proud to offer special pricing on select golf clubs, apparel, and accessories to first responders, including all active duty and retired law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics/EMTs, and 911 Dispatchers.

Active duty and retired members of the U.S. armed forces are also eligible to enjoy special pricing via the PXG for Heroes Program.

As an American company, it’s our privilege and duty to recognize and honor those who have dedicated their lives to protecting others.

WHAT DISCOUNTS CAN MILITARY AND FIRST RESPONDERS RECEIVE AT PXG?

PXG for Heroes is designed to provide the world’s finest golf equipment and geared to our nation’s finest. Through the program, verified first responders can receive a special discount of up to 50% off select clubs and apparel in recognition of their service to communities.

Read on to find out how to verify.

HOW DO FIRST RESPONDERS SIGN UP FOR SPECIAL PRICING?

Verifying as a first responder is fast and easy. We’ve detailed below the verification steps and documents that each classification of first responder may need to produce.

Once verified you will receive a notification email and yourverified ID.me first responder credential will be ready for immediate use.

Visit ID.me and sign in or create your ID.me profile and follow the steps on screen. You will be asked the following:

Select which group best describes you?

• Military
• First Responder

Once “First Responder” is selected, you’ll be asked for your classification.

• Verify as a certified EMT/Paramedic
• Verify as a state certified Firefighter
• Verify as a Law Enforcement Officer
  • Police Officers
  • Sheriff / Sheriff’s Deputies
  • Correctional Officers
  • State Troopers
  • Federal Law Enforcement Officers (Ex: Customs, Homeland Security, etc.)
• Verify as a 911 Dispatcher

EMT’S/PARAMEDICS

You will be asked to identify the state in which you are certified.

Alternatively, you can provide the following documentation:

• Valid EMT / Paramedic ID card
• Recent training completion certificate
• A copy of a valid, government-issued certification illustrating EMT/Paramedic status
• Retired ID card
• Certificate of retirement
• Pension statement
• Paystub

FIREFIGHTERS

You will be asked to identify the state in which you are certified.

Depending on your state, you may be asked for the following documentation. For example, to verify your status as a firefighter in Arizona, ID.me will check the information you provide against ProBoard.

• Must have active ProBoard certification
• Must have U.S. social security number

Firefighters who are not ProBoard certified will need to produce one of the following:

• Valid firefighter ID card
• Recent training completion certificate
• A copy of a valid, professionally issued certification illustrating firefighter status
• Retired ID card
• Certificate of retirement
• Pension statement
• Paystub

LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

You will be asked to provide documentation. Eligible documents include:

• Valid law enforcement ID card
• TSA ID cards are NOT accepted
• Paystub
• Standard Form 50 (SF-50)
• Retired ID card
• Certificate of Retirement
• Pension Statement
• Note: U.S. government IDs cannot be used for verification purposes

911 DISPATCHERS

You will be asked to provide documentation. Eligible documents include:

• Recent training completion certificate
• A copy of a valid, professionally issued certification illustrating 911 Dispatcher status
• Retired ID card
• Certificate of retirement
• Pension statement
• Paystub

All First Responders will be asked to confirm their legal identity.

WHAT IS ID.ME?

ID.me simplifies how individuals prove and share their identity online. The ID.me secure digital identity network has 64 million members with over 145,000 individuals joining daily, as well as partnerships with 27 states, multiple federal agencies, and over 500 name brand retailers. The company provides identity proofing, authentication, and group affiliation verification for organizations across sectors.

The company’s technology meets the highest federal standards and is approved as a NIST 800-63-3 IAL2/AAL2 conformant credential service provider by the Kantara Initiative. ID.me is the only provider with video chat and in-person verification, increasing access and equity. The team is committed to “No Identity Left Behind” to enable all people to have a secure digital identity.

GET READY TO ENJOY SPECIAL PRICING!

Visit ID.me and sign in or create your ID.me profile

Following verification, we invite eligible parties to enjoy special Heroes pricing on PXG clubs and select luxury performance apparel and golf accessories online and in PXG retail store locations nationwide.

Golf has widely been known as a sport that has both mental and physical health benefits. Playing golf regularly has been known to decrease anxiety, increase confidence, improve self-esteem, and more. Exercise from playing a round of golf also has significant benefits, and it’s one of the very few sports you can play no matter your age, impairment, gender, etc. It is a sport for EVERYONE, and, more specifically, veterans, military personnel, and first responders are turning to golf for its mental and physical health benefits. We interviewed three of our PXG For Heroes Troops to hear what they had to say about this topic:

THE IMPACT OF GOLF

Retired Corporal Chad Pfeifer turned to golf in 2008 when he was going through physical therapy and rehabilitation after being injured in Iraq. Physically, golf allowed him to practice walking with a prosthetic leg on different terrains and gave him an additional way of exercising. Mentally, it was a place for him to relieve stress and anger. It provided him a means to meet new people, attend different tournaments and events, and it gave him a platform to help inspire other wounded veterans and share a sport that would help them overcome adversity.

Retired United States Marine Davey Lind took up golf following his injuries in 2007. It became a great outlet for him and something to look forward to. “I have had more experiences (travel etc.) in the context of golf outings and have made more friends and memories from various golf adventures,” he stated.

Retired United States Marine Chris Nowak begin to participate in many sports after losing his leg. He became heavily involved in hockey and played on the National Amputee Hockey team for a couple of years. Golf later became a natural transition from hockey for Chris.

“Golf has impacted my life more than anything else I participated in or tried. Golf provides me the opportunity to focus on just that – golf. While playing golf or even at the range practicing, I can block out the other bad thoughts I have rolling around in my head, like the trauma I have experienced or even the day-to-day issues of life. Golf has given me the ability to interact with complete strangers, which is something I avoided for many years.”

JOINING THE PXG FAMILY

For Chris, being a member of the PXG For Heroes squad has presented him with the opportunity to play the best golf ever (period). It has given him the chance to play courses and participate in outings that he believes he wouldn’t otherwise have experienced. “Along with great clubs and playing great courses, I have had the honor to meet some great Americans who love golf and this great country.”

Chad states, “Being a part of the PXG For Heroes squad has introduced me to so many other veterans and wounded veterans. It has given me the opportunity to meet Rob Riggle, Jerome Bettis, Brian Urlacher, and many other celebrities, PGA golfers, LPGA golfers, and future stars of the game. It has also allowed me to get involved with organizations that help veterans, whether it be through golf or any other activity.”

Davey has also been able to travel to some of his favorite destinations (including Scottsdale National Golf Course) and has been able to talk about the outlet golf has become for him.

“I feel honored to be afforded with the opportunity to discuss golf/PXG wherever I go. PXG’s equipment and apparel are both head turners, so it is a huge compliment to be able to represent them.”

HOW CAN VETERANS GET INVOLVED IN GOLF?

“I was fortunate to be living in San Diego at the time of my injuries because we have year-round golf. Various Recreational Therapy outlets offered to teach and instruct me. I was put in contact with Operation Game On (OGO), and that is where I originally had the fires lit for the passion to compete, against others AND myself. OGO provided instruction and equipment so many years ago. I was fortunate they existed.

Now today I have a network of fellow golfers through tournaments, etc. that I get to play with and compete both with and against. My goals have always been the same … “just don’t embarrass yourself.” I often fail at this because golf is ever changing and ever challenging, but it is always fun and a positive outlet for me.” -Davey Lind

Chad believes veterans are getting more and more access to the game of golf through different organizations and from seeing other wounded veterans play the game in different outings and tournaments. “Golf scrambles are a great fundraiser for many different organizations, but they also introduce so many people to the game of golf, and from there so many people become hooked. I have been fortunate to work with many organizations that introduce veterans to golf including Feherty’s Troops First Foundation, Salute Military Golf Association, Tee It Up For The Troops, Semper Fi Foundation, Homes for our Troops, Fairways for Warriors, and the PGA Hope program. I have also begun my own program called Moving Foreward which helps get anyone with a disability into the game of golf.”

Take a moment to check out Moving Foreward, an amazing non-profit that shares the values PXG is honored to stand behind.

Chris encourages any veteran or active military person to check out the Helping Our Patriots Everywhere Golf program. “The HOPE program is open and free to all military and veterans and is taught by specially trained PGA professionals who have been taught about adaptive golf, as well as, received specific training on military and veteran culture with an emphasis on PTSD.”

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO IS LOOKING INTO PLAYING THE GAME OF GOLF?

“I would tell them to not get caught up on what you see on TV, etc. The people you see playing this great game have spent their entire lives getting to that level. Just go out, drink a few beers, and enjoy the game!” -Chris Nowak

In Davey’s experience golf is the ONLY game you can do for the rest of your life. “The handicap system makes competition relevant to the individual, so no matter who you go up against, you can compete.” It is the hardest game he has ever played, so he believes that if you are competitive or want a challenge, you should start playing golf … today.

Chad recommends that you be patient with your progress, as he is sure you will never regret getting involved in the sport.

“Golf is so frustrating at times, but through practice and playing often you can easily track your progress, and it always keeps you coming back. When you have a bad day, or when you’re just beginning, or if you think you aren’t very good, one good shot is all it takes to feel satisfied and that feeling keeps you coming back for more.”

If all the above is true (which for the record, PXG believes it is), then why not pick up the game of golf? Everyone can use a day of relaxation, and if that is what a day on the course leads to, then we will see you out there. So, pick up a golf club, grab your favorite drink, and go see what this wonderful, crazy sport is all about.

ABOUT PXG FOR HEROES

PXG founder and owner, Bob Parsons knows all about the benefits of golf.  Bob is a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam War Combat Veteran and a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal, Combat Action Ribbon and Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry.

PXG for Heroes is designed to provide the world’s finest golf equipment and gear to our nation’s finest – the men and women of the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Law Enforcement, Firefighters, and EMTs.

To enjoy special pricing on PXG clubs, apparel and accessories – get securely verified for the PXG For Heroes Program through ID.me Once verified you’ll be welcomed to the PXG for Heroes program where you can begin shopping!

At the recent PXG College Golf Showcase, two teams of college students competed to raise money for nonprofits, including The Semper Fi & America’s Fund. Watch PXG Founder, Bob Parsons sat down with The Fund’s chairman – Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph F. Dunford Jr. – and comedian/Marine Rob Riggle to discuss The Fund’s mission and how PXG will continue playing a part.

PXG Founder and CEO Bob Parsons is a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam War Combat Veteran and a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry.  In this video, Bob discusses his experience during the Vietnam War and how PTSD has impacted his life and many of his fellow veterans. 

This year is the 10th Annual Double Down for Veterans campaign. The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation announced that it will once again match dollar-for-dollar donations made to Semper Fi & America’s Fund up to $10 million.

The Fund walks alongside our combat wounded, critically ill, and injured service members, military family members, and veterans, from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, by offering tailored support and assistance to ensure military heroes know that they are not alone and are supported through complex medical and emotional recovery.

PTSD Resources for Veterans

If you are a veteran who wants psychedelic-assisted therapy, contact Mount Sinai’s Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research for more information at 646-438-5044.

For non-medical assistance with PTSD, call Semper Fi & America’s Fund PTSD/Crisis Line available 24/7, at 866-843-7323.

In a medical emergency, dial 9-1-1.

THE INSPIRATION BEHIND PATTI

In 2009, a block from her home, Patti was riding her motorcycle when a drunk driver hit her with his truck while driving in the wrong direction. This accident forced the amputation of her left leg below her knee. At the time, Patti had aspirations to become a professional bowler, but because she was a right-handed athlete, which requires you to have incredible stability in your left leg, she soon realized she would not be able to bowl the way that she had.

Through this life-changing transition Patti found golf.

THE ULTIMATE REWARD

Patti has now been playing golf for four years. At first, she barrowed clubs and decided she was not going to buy herself her own set of equipment until she felt she “deserved them.” Her goal was to start playing consistently and playing to a pre-determined target score on a more regular basis. Once she felt that she had accomplished this, after making the USA Para-Golf Team, she slowly started incorporating PXG clubs into her bag.

“I don’t know if it’s the clubs that are making my score lower or if my overall game is coming together. Hey, it’s working.”

TAKING PXG TO THE COURSE

“Whenever I strike my PXGs, the sound, distance, and control are never overlooked by others. They are quick to ask what I am using.”

SAVED BY GOLF

After retiring from Fire Rescue, Patti believes that golf saved her and filled a void she never thought possible. “I found that there are many parallels between golf and the fire service, so it was a perfect fit. Golf restored hope, purpose, and great pride in myself. I found that I was no longer trying to hide my disability but embrace it.” She has also helped others by answering their questions and sharing the techniques that work for her. “People are actually listening to me. After winning a few major tournaments, it gave me a voice that others want to hear.”

SO, WHAT’S IN PATTI’S BAG?

• PXG 0811 10.5 prototype Driver with a 55-gram regular flex Aldila shaft and standard Lamkin grip
• PXG 0341 GEN2 3-Wood with a Fujikura Pro 2.0 5-Regular shaft and standard Lamkin grip
• PXG 0317 X GEN2 17-degree Hybrid with a 50i Accra regular shaft and standard Lamkin grip
• PXG 0311 GEN3 P 4 iron – gap
• PXG Sugar Daddy Wedges, 54 and 58 degree with a Mitsubishi 70-gram regular flex shaft and Lamkin standard grip
• PXG Battle Ready One & Done Putter with a Stability Tour shaft and standard PURE grips grip

WHAT’S NEXT?

Patti is a proud member of our PXG for Heroes Squad and is looking forward to playing in tournaments with her full set of PXG clubs.

What’s in your bag?

And sometimes, they also need our support.

That’s where Semper Fi & America’s Fund (The Fund) comes in. The nonprofit provides immediate financial assistance and lifetime support to combat-wounded, critically ill, and catastrophically injured members of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families.

This year marks the 9^th annual Double Down for Veterans matching campaign, and PXG is proud to support our sister company, The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation, in this challenge to raise $20 million in two months. All donations made November 1 through December 31, 2020 to The Fund will be matched, dollar-for-dollar, up to $10 million by The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation.

SEMPER FI & AMERICA’S FUND

The Fund’s programming falls under three main categories: Service Member and Family Support, Integrative Wellness, and Transition. Its assistance can come in big and small ways – from financial aid and meeting adaptive housing needs to PTSD counseling and job training. Sometimes, it’s holding a caregiver’s hand or giving them the day off to get their hair cut. And sometimes it’s making sure that a struggling veteran knows they are not alone.

SUPPORT IN ACTION

Like so many of our nation’s heroes, PXG Troop and Marine Veteran Jacob Dodge makes it sound so casual when he talks about getting “blown up a couple of times” in Afghanistan and earning two Purple Hearts. But that casual demeanor gives way to passion when talking about The Fund.

“The amount of care, love, and respect The Fund shows for veterans and their families is incredible. What they’ve done not only for me, but also my fiancé has been amazing.” ~Jacob Dodge

For Dodge, support from The Fund has come in the form of help in managing treatment for a traumatic brain injury, a spousal retreat for his fiancé, paying travel expenses for him and fellow troops to attend the funeral of a fallen friend, and so much more.

Army veteran and PXG Heroes Squad Member Saul Martinez suffered catastrophic injures in 2007 that left him a bilateral amputee, with a traumatic brain injury, and survivor’s guilt. Support from The Fund started when he was in the hospital and continues strong to this day. A recent gift from The Fund came earlier this year when Martinez was prepping for surgery that would result in a fairly grueling recovery.

Knowing Martinez uses art as therapy and would be unable to utilize his normal art supplies during recovery, The Fund gifted him an iPad to keep up with his artwork and brain exercises without all of the chores that come with physical materials during his several months of healing.

“I could go on all day about what The Fund has done for me and my family. From meeting specific needs to proactively checking in to offer support, encouragement, and compassion, The Fund is altering the very trajectory of our lives. The Fund is enabling veterans and their families to pursue joy.” ~ Saul Martinez

Martinez was introduced to PXG for Heroes through his case manager at The Fund and more than just improving his game (which it did), having PXG in his bag has “built confidence with every swing.”

PXG FOR HEROES

PXG Founder & CEO Bob Parsons is a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam Combat Veteran and his military roots are baked into the very DNA of our brand – from the MOS-inspired club naming convention (and liberal use of camo print) to a desire to honor those who serve.

PXG for Heroes was launched in 2018 to offer all current servicemembers, veterans, and first responders PXG clubs at a very special price as a small thank you for their service. Colonel Kevin Hudson USMC (Ret), the director of the PXG for Heroes program, remembers when Bob Parsons gave him the directive to start the program.

“Mr. Parsons wanted to ensure we were getting the world’s best golf equipment in the hands of our nation’s best – our veterans,” said Hudson. “So that’s what we’ve done. In just over two years, more than 60,000 veterans, active-duty military members, and first responders have joined the PXG for Heroes program. It’s grown into a group where our heroes can form deep connections and once again feel like they truly belong.”

A recurring sentiment among our service members and first responers is the therapeutic nature of golf. It’s a chance to both reengage the competitive spirit with like-minded friends and clear your head. Our PXG Heroes Squad enjoys golf as therapy and an opportunity to raise awareness for the Fund and the needs of the veteran community.

PXG will contine to grow our PXG for Heroes program to ensure the nation’s finest hit the course with the world’s best golf equipment.

We’ll also continue to support the great work being done by Semper Fi & America’s Fund. Every dollar makes a difference – donate before December 31 to double your impact.

When it comes to golf, you never know who you are going to meet on the course. One of the many wonders of the sport is its ability to bring together people of different backgrounds and abilities. Britton Munoz is an avid golfer and at first blush his battle on the course appears to be no different than yours or mine. However, Britton is legally blind, and his efforts to get other visually impaired golfers outside and on the course should not be overlooked. In fact, his efforts are awe inspiring and should be celebrated.

THE COURAGE BEHIND BRITTON MUNOZ

Britton, who was already legally blind in one eye, had his other eye harpooned by a police dog while in training, forcing him to retire from the force. This left him feeling down and spending lots of time at home. One day he had an epiphany. Realizing that there were golf courses all around him he decided that he was going to pick up the game.

“I didn’t start golfing until after I became legally blind. Now, when I play, I feel normal. Yes, I need help from my coach, but I feel normal and am treated as such. Also, I get satisfaction in how hard I work to improve my golf game. I am able to beat players with vision!”

THE NEED FOR FORGIVENESS

Britton finds most of his mishits to be behind the ball or off-center, which causes him to lose distance. “I am a competitive, blind golfer, and I need the most forgiving club on the market.”

So, he set out to find irons that offer outstanding forgiveness and enable him to hit the center of the clubface more consistently.

“The only thing I could say when I first hit my PXG 0311 GEN2 SGI Irons was, ‘WOW.’ Everything in golf for me is about feel because I am blind, and I could not believe how fantastic it felt when the ball came of the clubface. Even my off-center hits that hit the toe felt great.”

TAKING PXG TO THE COURSE

“With my other irons I would shoot between 90 and 94, and sometimes in the high 80s. On Tuesday, August 11, 2020 (one of my first rounds with my PXG Irons) I shot an 83.”

Today, Britton is a fan of the phrase, “he’s not blind,” a common reaction to his striking the golf ball square and spending it down the fairway.

SO, WHAT’S IN BRITTON’S BAG?

• PXG 0311 GEN2 SGI Irons – 5-G – Regular Flex Mitsubishi MMT 70G Shafts and standard PXG grips

WHAT’S NEXT?

“I am addicted to golf. My number one goal is to be the number one Blind B2 Golfer in the world. I know I will get there with my hard work, my positive attitude, and all of the support I get.”

What’s your golf goal?

Remember the traditional nursery rhyme “This Little Piggy?” This is our version with a PXG For Heroes twist:

THIS PXG HERO SEARCHES FOR PERFECTION

“I have been playing golf since I was 11 years old. I have always said that golf is addictive because you always hit one or two shots a round that are perfect, and that constant search for perfection brings you back. That one long putt that saved you par, or maybe even got you a birdie, always brings you back.” – George Brooks

THIS PXG HERO STRIVES FOR THE BEST

“I took up golf when I was getting too old and mellow to be a competitive triathlete and volleyball player. I instantly fell in love with the game. Like a U.S. Marine and triathlete, I needed to have the best equipment available to succeed and win. PXG gives me that on the golf course.” – Joel Wintjen

THIS PXG HERO SEEKS INNOVATION

“I play PXG because of the company’s drive for innovation and technology. PXG strives to bring the best of the best innovation and design to each and every club they produce.” – Brandon Depperschmidt

THIS PXG HERO CRUSHED IT

“The first time I went and played a round with my PXG clubs I went to a course with some friends in Yelm, Washington. I rarely get on in three on Par 5s, but I hit a great shot with my PXG driver and had 236 yards to go. I have never hit a 3-wood 236 yards, and I just crushed it. I absolutely crushed it and put it about two and a half feet from the hole. And, my first shot with my PXG 3-wood helped me get my first eagle on a Par 5.” -Mark Bensen

THIS PXG HERO LOVES COMPETING AGAINST HIMSELF

“Once I started playing, I loved the idea of competing against myself. You’re always trying to get a better score, especially when you start at 120 and want to drop into the 90s. I really could care less who wins, but I do care about improving myself and, most importantly, having fun.” – Jay Goldberg

THIS PXG HERO APPRECIATES THE CUSTOMER SERVICE

“I play PXG because of the customer service, literally THE best I have ever had. My fitter had me so relaxed that I started swinging while talking when I was fitted for my set of PXG 0211 Irons. Later, I ended up ordering a Romeo Wedge, and a few days after I ordered the 0811 X+ Prototype Driver. They added the Romeo to the Prototype order without any issues. My last fitting for a PXG Driving Iron was awesome too. All in all, my experiences with PXG have been second to none.” -Humberto Garcia

THIS PXG HERO ENJOYS THE REACTIONS

“I love the reactions from people on the range and on the course when they see what I’m playing. PXG has turned into the unicorn of golf. Everyone has seen the commercials, and they all know the price, but not many people see them in person, so when they see my bag they are in awe. ” -Geoffrey Jeppson

THIS PXG HERO PLAYS TO WIN

“I love to play golf. With PXG clubs in the bag, I play to win.” – Roberto Martinez Jr.

THIS PXG HERO RECOGNIZES THAT PXG EQUIPMENT IS FOR EVERYONE

“I play PXG because I like the look and feel of the clubs. I also like the response you get when you strike the ball. PXG clubs are very forgiving, and I gain considerable carry distance even on my miss-hits. From the wedges, all the way to the driver, PXG has designed quality clubs not only for the professional player but the everyday golfer.” -Steven Frazier

THIS PXG HERO LIVES BY THE SAYING: “YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR”

“I never thought I would own PXG equipment, but as a photographer for 40 years I have found, mostly, that you get what you pay for. I have certainly found that to be true of cameras and lenses and studio equipment. After reading about the process of building PXG clubs I had a hunch it was true of them as well. On a lark (what can it hurt, right?) I set up a fitting with PXG. At the end of our session I was hitting a PXG 7-Iron as far as, and higher than, my current equipment. And the feeling, my goodness there is no way to describe it. The hunch I had ended up being spot on.” -David VanGelder

Why do you play PXG?