D.J. Gregory wasn’t supposed to be able to walk. Doctors told his parents when he was a baby that he would most likely spend his life in a wheelchair due to cerebral palsy.
They were mistaken.
Gregory underwent multiple surgeries and eventually learned to walk with the aid of a cane. Gregory fell in love with the game of golf when he was 12 years old, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Gregory established his Walking For Kids Foundation in late 2019, which allows PGA Tour players and fans to donate to children’s charities.
The foundation recently reached a milestone of raising $1 million in total.
Gregory was presented with the PGA Tour Courage Award during a surprise ceremony at the WM Phoenix Open on Tuesday.
“For over a decade on the PGA Tour, D.J. has endeared himself to countless fans, players, staff, and tournaments, and is a tremendous example of perseverance and courage,” said PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan. “Over the years, our players have embraced D.J. and continue to be inspired by his commitment to the Walking For Kids Foundation. We couldn’t be more proud of the positive impact he’s had and the many lives he’s touched.”
Gregory is the fifth person to receive the award, and the first non-PGA Tour player to do so.
Gregory has walked over 14,000 miles and 42,000 holes on the PGA Tour since 2008.
🚶♂️ 14,000 miles
⛳️ 42,000 holes
❤️ $1 million raised @WalkingForKidsDJ Gregory is the recipient of the PGA TOUR Courage Award. pic.twitter.com/clqPPur76E
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) February 8, 2022
Monahan announced that the PGA Tour would donate $25,000 to Walking For Kids during the award ceremony at TPC Scottsdale. After that, Waste Management and Jon Rahm followed suit. Gregory will be walking with the World No. 1 in Scottsdale for the entire week. When Rahm won the US Open last summer at Torrey Pines, the two were there.
Gregory was profiled on ESPN’s E:60 in 2008 if you’re interested in knowing more about him and his tale.
