1984 when she clinched the U . S . Women ’ s Amateur champion title and was recognized as the outstanding female collegiate golfer with the Broderick Award in 1985 . These triumphs were only a prelude to her dazzling professional career .
Richard with her crowning glory , her 1984 U . S . Women ’ s Amateur champion trophy .
( Photo contributed )
A Glittering Professional Journey
Commencing her professional journey in 1985 , Richard showed early signs of greatness by qualifying for the LPGA Tour in her very first attempt . The subsequent years were a whirlwind of accomplishments , with highlights including her first LPGA Tour tournament win in 1987 at the Rochester International and victories at the Women ’ s Kemper Open and the Phar-Mor in Youngstown in 1991 . Over the years , Richard displayed immense tenacity and resilience , battling injuries and setbacks but always making a triumphant return . Throughout the years , Richard made it to the leaderboards on numerous occasions , attesting to her consistency and dedication to the sport .
Beyond the Greens : A Heart of Gold
But Richard ’ s legacy is not just about the birdies and the trophies . In 1995 , taking a step into the non-profit world , she established the Deb Richard Foundation with a mission to award college scholarships that support physically challenged students by giving them the opportunity to succeed academically . The scholarship program is now fully endowed by her alma mater , the University of Florida .
“ I had an epiphany one day that all I was doing inside the ropes as a tour player was personal ,” she explained . “ But when I stepped outside the ropes , I knew I had a platform to make an impact , empower others , and build stronger communities .”
Numerous accolades came pouring in . Golf Digest honored her with the 1994 Founders Cup Award . The very next year , her commitment to the foundation won her the Sports Illustrated -Kids Good Sports Award . Further recognition came in 1996 with the Samaritan Award .
A Commitment to Service
Richard runs one of the relay race legs with a decommissioned flag for Team Red , White , and Blue during the 2017 “ Old Glory Relay ” in California . The veterans ’ organization hosts an annual run and bike ride across the country to raise funds for veterans . ( Photo contributed )
Recently , Richard has brought her vast experience to the Midwest Section PGA and its Foundation , particularly resonating with the veterans ’ pillar ( which includes PGA HOPE ) of the Foundation . Having previously worked with veterans through another veterans ’ foundation in California , she is passionate about creating a thriving and powerful community for them . Richard sees her involvement in the Midwest Section PGA Foundation as an opportunity to bring her skills to the table in a manner that will foster further growth , achieve the desired outcomes , expand on those , and raise more money .
“ My goal is to meet more Section members and build those relationships , becoming a reflection of them in the process ,” she said . “ The PGA pros just get it , and they need me to do the things they don ’ t have the time to focus on , and that is where my involvement is .”
Adam Greeno , Executive Director of the Midwest Section PGA , said , “ The Midwest Section PGA Foundation is delighted to join forces with Deb . Her contribution is key as we gear up for a period of notable progress that promises to touch the community in meaningful ways . We ’ re keenly optimistic about what we can achieve together .”
Today , with decades of accomplishments behind her , Richard , a retired LPGA Tour player and member , has been based in Kansas City for the past five years . She is currently an Executive Coach and CEO of Burlap Leaders , where she helps other resilient and versatile leaders with a passion for more discover their own unique gifts and learn how to share those with others for the greater good .
As she looks back at her journey , Richard acknowledges the profound impact the game of golf has had on her life and is keen to give back to the sport and community . She cherishes the camaraderie and support from fellow LPGA players in her philanthropic endeavors and believes in the collective effort for the greater good .
“ Nobody does things like this alone ,” said Richard , emphasizing the collaborative nature of such endeavors .
Richard ’ s life serves as an inspiration not just for aspiring golfers but for all those who believe in the power of dedication , resilience , and service . As she reflects , the journey of learning and growth in golf , as in life , ebbs and flows . With every swing , putt , and drive , she has not just played a game , but has crafted a legacy that will be remembered for ages to come .
Ann Butenas is a contributing writer for the Midwest Section PGA . For more information about the Midwest Section PGA , call 816.229.6493 or visit www . midwest . pga . com .
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