Standout golfer and Jackson State alumnus Clay Myers parlayed his skills on the course into an appearance this spring on the Golf Channel’s hit series, Big Break the Palm Beaches, and became a fan favorite in the process.
The series was shot in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, at Jack Nicklaus’ PGA National Resort & Spa. The stakes were high for the cast of 12 — $50,000 and an opportunity to play in the PGA Tour’s Barbasol Challenge in June.
“I learned I have what it takes — how to dig deep and how to bring out that fierce, competitive side of me,” said the 24-year-old, who made it to the final four before being eliminated.
While at JSU, Myers, coached by Eddie Payton, led the university to four SWAC titles and was named 2012 SWAC Golfer of the Year. Shortly after graduating with a degree in accounting, Myers qualified for the 2012 U.S. Amateur at Cherry Hills in Colorado.
Being the only African-American among 300 qualifiers further solidified his desire to play golf professionally.
“I couldn’t believe I was the only African- American in the field,” said Myers. “It seemed like a sign, that this was what I was supposed to do, play tournament golf to inspire more diversity in the game at its highest level.”
Myers, a Memphis native, lives in Orlando, Fla.
He continues to work a variety of jobs to fund his budding golfing career, including commercial work for television. He’s also caddied for Cheyenne Woods, niece of legendary golfer Tiger Woods, on the Symetra Tour.