Jade Small
Jade Small
November 14, 2024 ·  3 min read

Golfer has the last thing his dad ever wrote tattooed on his arm. Then he played in the Masters

On the greens, 23-year-old amateur golfer Sam Bennett carries a deeply personal reminder: a tattoo on his forearm featuring the last words his father ever wrote to him. These words, he shares, help him stay centered and focused on his game and his life.

A Promising Golfer on the Rise

As a fifth-year student at Texas A&M University, Bennett is balancing academics with a blossoming golf career. In 2022, he reached the U.S. Amateur Final, achieving a third-place ranking in the World Amateur Golf Ranking. Now, he’s competing in the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National, with additional goals for an SEC ring, an NCAA title, and graduation.

Words of Wisdom to Live By

tattoo on arm
Sam Bennett shows the tattoo on his arm in his dad’s handwriting. Golf Channel

Through every swing and putt, Bennett keeps close to the advice his father once shared: “Don’t wait to do something.” This message now serves as a lifelong motivator, reminding him to live with purpose and seize every opportunity.

A Lasting Message from a Father to His Son

In a recent Golf Channel interview, Bennett opened up about the final words his father shared. Before passing in June 2021, his father, who suffered from early-onset Alzheimer’s, had a moment of clarity and gave Bennett advice that would forever shape his life: to live without hesitation and embrace each moment.

Capturing a Final Moment of Clarity

Sam Bennett of the United States plays golf
Sam Bennett of the United States plays during a practice round prior to the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 04, 2023 in Augusta, Georgia. Ross Kinnaird / Getty Images

Moved by his father’s message, Bennett asked his mother to help his dad, who struggled with motor skills, write down the words. It took fifteen minutes, with guidance for each letter, but those words became the anchor that Bennett would carry forever.

A Symbol of Strength and Fearlessness

Eventually, Bennett decided to make this message a permanent part of his life. He had the words tattooed on his forearm in his father’s handwriting, a constant reminder to be bold and face life’s challenges without fear.

Facing Life Without Fear

Bennett says the tattoo is more than ink—it’s a message to never let fear hold him back. He admits that witnessing his father’s struggle changed his outlook, encouraging him to embrace a fearless approach in all he does.

The Support of a Coach and Mentor

Bennett’s coach, Brian Kortan, has witnessed the impact of these words on Bennett’s life and growth. Kortan shared that the tattoo has been a powerful influence, helping Bennett find the confidence to pursue his dreams without his father by his side.

An Inspiring Reminder to Live Boldly

According to Kortan, Bennett’s tattoo is a reflection of his determination to take life head-on. The words remind him daily to live intentionally and chase his dreams, a legacy that his father would surely be proud of.

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