News
Meet the Pros
For the Mahons
The Golf Business is a Family Tradition
by Ann E . Butenas , contributing writer
In the heart of the Midwest , a family ’ s passion for golf has blossomed into a multi-generational legacy . At the center of this story is Charlie Mahon , a 72-year-old golf professional whose journey began at the age of 11 on the fairways of Omaha Country Club in Nebraska .
“ I always knew I was going to be a golf pro ,” Charlie recalled . His father , active in the Knights of Columbus Golf League in Omaha , set the stage for young Charlie ’ s future . “ When I was 11 , my dad invited ( PGA golf professional ) Kevin O ’ Connor to speak at the Knights of Columbus golf banquet , and he encouraged my dad to get me started on caddying .” This early introduction to the game would shape not only his life but that of his entire family in the ensuing years .
After high school , Charlie attended the University of Nebraska-Omaha , studying business , but he knew deep down that a career in golf was where his heart was . As such , Charlie embarked on a professional career that would span decades and touch countless lives . His journey took him from Lakeshore Golf & Country Club in Council Bluffs , IA , to Lake Creek in Storm Lake , IA , and then to Meadowbrook Golf Course in Rapid City , SD . Returning to Omaha at Eagle Run Golf Course , Charlie eventually made his way to Kansas in 1995 , taking charge of the Lake Shawnee and Forbes public courses in Topeka .
It was in Topeka that Charlie ’ s impact on junior golf truly flourished . He ran programs for up to 200 youth each summer , instilling in them not just a love for the game but valuable life lessons as well . In 2004 , seeking a new challenge , Charlie moved to the Kansas City area , assuming the role of general manager and head pro at Grand Summit Golf Club in Grandview , MO , where he continues to positively impact lives through the game of golf today .
12 October 2024 TEE TIMES GOLF GUIDE
Courtney Mahon ’ s golf journey includes being a threetime winner of both the Kansas and Missouri women ’ s amateur championships , a collegiate career at the University of Arkansas , and a LPGA member since 2012 . Charlie Mahon ( on right ), Courtney ’ s father , is a 72-year-old golf professional and general manager with a golf career that spans three decades .
Throughout his career , Charlie has been a dedicated member of the Midwest Section PGA , with a membership spanning three decades . His dedication to the profession is evident in his approaching 50-year anniversary as a PGA member . Charlie ’ s influence extends beyond his own achievements , however , as he fondly remembers one of his earliest mentors , Bob Popp . “ He was in the Nebraska Section PGA , was Section President , and was the National Vice President for the PGA . He was a hard worker and a great player , and I really admired that about him ,” said Charlie .
Charlie ’ s greatest pride , however , is his family . He and his wife , Mary Beth , have raised three children –– son Charlie Jr . and daughters Courtney and Mallory –– all of whom were introduced to golf at a young age . Courtney has made her mark in the sport , becoming a standout player in her own right . While the younger Charlie and Mallory have pursued careers outside of golf , they still enjoy playing occasionally . Charlie Jr . also spent many years in the golf business as a Midwest Section PGA member but has since moved on to pursue work outside of golf . Nevertheless , he helps his father with junior golf programs when time allows . The family ’ s golf legacy now extends to their six grandchildren , who are being introduced to the game , showcasing how the sport has become an integral part of the Mahon family across generations .
Courtney Mahon ’ s golf journey is equally impressive . A threetime winner of both the Kansas and Missouri women ’ s amateur championships , Courtney was a bright star during her collegiate career at the University of Arkansas . Her professional path has been multifaceted , too , from winning a 2013 Grasshooper Tour ( a former women ’ s pro tour ) event in Phoenix to becoming the lead instructor for the Tour Striker Golf Academy in Phoenix . When thinking about her dad and how he has impacted her life , Courtney doesn ’ t hesitate to give him the highest of accolades .