Jackson Murray drives a ball during the Air Combat Command Kids’ golf program, at the Carolina Lakes Golf Course, Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., June 20, 2012. This four-day class started on June 18. The class was organized by Katharine Williams, Carolina Lakes director of golf, and former Professional Golf Association professional.(U.S. Air Force Airman Nicole Sikorski/Released)
U.S. Army Capt. Jeremy Brown, Third Army/ARCENT, special troops battalion logistics officer, marches students to the next station during the Air Combat Command kids’ golf program at the Carolina Lakes Golf Course, Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., June 20, 2012. This four-day class started on June 18. The class was organized by Katharine Williams, Carolina Lakes director of golf and former Professional Golf Association professional.(U.S. Air Force Airman Nicole Sikorski/Released)
Andy Peidl, Carolina Lakes assistant manager and former Professional Golf Association professional (left), teaches Anna Dorson (right) how to putt during the Air Combat Command kids’ golf program at the Carolina Lakes Golf Course, Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., June 20, 2012. This four-day class started on June 18. The class was organized by Katharine Williams, Carolina Lakes director of golf and former Professional Golf Association professional.(U.S. Air Force Airman Nicole Sikorski/Released)
Kids march to the next practice station during the Air Combat Command Kids’ Golf Program at the Carolina Lakes Golf Course, Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., June 20, 2012. This four-day class started on June 18. The class was organized by Katharine Williams, Carolina Lakes director of golf and former Professional Golf Association professional.(U.S. Air Force Airman Nicole Sikorski/Released)
Jackson Murray (left) and Karyna Gonzalez (right) look for a bug in a hole at the Carolina Lakes Golf Course, Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., June 20, 2012. Both Murray and Gonzalez attended the four-day Air Combat Command kids’ golf class which was organized by Katharine Williams, Carolina Lakes director of golf and former Professional Golf Association professional.(U.S. Air Force Airman Nicole Sikorski/Released)
Mateya Sheppard places a ball on a tee during the Air Combat Command Kids’ golf program at the Carolina Lakes Golf Course, Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., June 20, 2012. This four-day class started on June 18. The class was organized by Katharine Williams, Carolina Lakes director of golf and former Professional Golf Association professional.(U.S. Air Force Airman Nicole Sikorski/Released)
by Airman Nicole Sikorski
20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
6/22/2012 - SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Air Combat Command sponsored a four-day children's golf class June 18 to 22, at the Carolina Lakes Golf Course.
The class of 25 children provided instruction in putting, driving and various golf techniques. Both prior Professional Golf Association professionals, Katherine Williams, Carolina Lakes director, and Andy Peidl, Carolina Lakes assistant manager, taught the course.
Carolina Lakes holds three classes per summer. Each two-hour class accommodates 25 children and four instructors. Classes include four days of lessons, a set of golf clubs, balls and tees, a Carolina Lakes hat and meals for $65 per class.
To register for this class, visit the Carolina Lakes pro shop. The point of contact for this class is Williams, who can be reached at 895-1399.
"This class provides a rare opportunity for kids of military personnel to gain access to an expensive sport," said Williams.
Policy allows Carolina Lakes to instruct 75 kids per summer and stresses the importance of teaching this sport to children at a young age. The command also emphasizes keeping Airmen and their families physically active.
"First and foremost, we must continue to care for our Airmen and their families," said Gen. Mike Hostage, ACC commander. "At Air Combat Command, we've taken a proactive approach to increase Airmen resiliency through a culture of comprehensive Airman fitness."
"What if Tiger Woods (didn't have) access to golf?" said Williams. "This is making an impression on the futures of these children. This class is important because you can play this sport throughout your life."
