In the world of golf, the story of Amy Bockerstette and Gary Woodland has become one of the most inspiring and heartwarming stories of inclusion and triumph over adversity. It all started during the practice round of the 2019 Waste Management Phoenix Open, where Gary Woodland, a professional golfer, met Amy, a young woman with Down Syndrome who was playing in the Special Olympics Arizona golf tournament.
The Meeting
Woodland was impressed by Amy's positive attitude and her determination to play the game despite her disability. He was so touched by her spirit that he invited her to join him for a practice round at the TPC Scottsdale course, which is known for its raucous crowds and challenging holes.
"I Got This"
When they reached the famous par-3 16th hole, which is surrounded by grandstands filled with thousands of fans, Woodland asked Amy if she wanted to hit a shot. She eagerly accepted, and with her father and Woodland watching, she hit a beautiful shot that landed on the green.
As she walked towards the green, with Woodland and the crowd cheering her on, Amy turned to her father and exclaimed, "I got this!" Her infectious smile and positive attitude captured the hearts of everyone who witnessed the moment.
The Video Goes Viral
A video of the moment went viral on social media, with millions of people around the world sharing the story of Amy and her amazing shot. The video also caught the attention of the Special Olympics, who invited Amy to be a guest speaker at their national conference in Washington, D.C.
The US Open Championship
But the story didn't end there. In June of 2019, Woodland was competing in the US Open Championship, one of the most prestigious tournaments in golf. On the eve of the tournament, he received a surprise phone call from Amy, who wished him good luck and encouraged him to play his best.
Woodland was so moved by the call that he went out and played some of the best golf of his life. He went on to win the championship, his first major victory, and dedicated the win to Amy and her message of inclusion and positivity.
The Impact of the Story
The story of Amy and Gary has inspired people around the world, and has become a symbol of the power of inclusion and the importance of treating everyone with kindness and respect. It shows that no matter who you are or what challenges you face, you can achieve great things if you believe in yourself and have the support of those around you.
Amy's Message
Amy's message to the world is simple but powerful: "I can do anything I set my mind to." She has shown that with hard work, determination, and a positive attitude, anyone can achieve their goals and overcome their obstacles.
Conclusion
The story of Amy Bockerstette and Gary Woodland is a shining example of the best of humanity. It shows that with kindness, compassion, and a willingness to include and support others, we can all achieve great things and make the world a better place. We can all learn from Amy's message of positivity and determination, and strive to be the best versions of ourselves that we can be.