From sleeping in his car to mixing it with the best golfers in the world, Willie Mack III's journey to the PGA Tour is far from conventional
Willie Mack III’s Inspirational Journey To The PGA Tour
Ahead of this week’s Genesis Invitational, one of the most intriguing storylines is that of Willie Mack III, whose route to the PGA Tour has been anything but plain sailing.
Having won the money list on the Florida Professional Golf Tour and reached the second stage of Q-School straight out of University in 2011, Mack’s pro career got off to a promising start.
“It started out pretty good that first year and I kind of got into a little groove of maybe this is easy,” Mack said.
“Then the next two or three years after that, it was a struggle.
“I left home that summer and I told my dad I was going to go to Florida.
“I had no money and it just turned into a hassle and a struggle, but I kept fighting and I’m here today.”
“I remember it like it was yesterday,” he added.
"In the early stages of it happening I was a bit embarrassed, but I'm glad I went through it and it made me a better man and golfer.
“I’ve come a long way and I’m definitely going to work hard and make sure I don’t get back there.”
Away from the course Mack describes himself as a "quiet guy" but beneath that exterior lies a competitor with an unwavering dedication.
It’s not unreasonable to assume that many in that position would’ve given up, but for Mack, quitting was never an option.
“Knowing that my dad gave all his money and time into something his son wanted to do; I didn’t want to give up not only for myself, but for him and my family also.
“Everybody goes through tough times, I just went through a different one than most people, but I’m glad I’m through it and hopefully the future will be a lot better.”
And while he didn’t score how he would have liked at Torrey Pines, the 32-year-old insists he learnt a lot and will be better equipped for this week's challenge.
“It was exciting, and it was a learning experience.
“I think it happened for a reason and I’m glad I did it.
“I found out about my driver and got some new equipment and even just manoeuvring around the course and the locker room and different things, Torrey definitely helped me for the future.
