Going Pro

Destiny Lawson recently played in her first LPGA event

Ocala native Destiny Lawson recently competed in her first Ladies Professional Golf League (LPGA) tournament.

On May 20-23, Lawson participated in the 2021 Pure Silk Championship in Williamsburg, Virginia. The tournament was held on the 72-hole par-71 River Course at Kingsmill Resort with a prize fund of $1.3 million.

Destiny’s made it into the tournament after she was invited by the sponsor to compete in a Monday qualifier the week of the tournament.

The 24-year-old professional golfer was grateful for the opportunity but had to pay her way.

To help cover her travel expenses, Lawson received donations from family, friends, and local sponsors such as Mackenzie’s Moment and members of the Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club.

“It takes a team to go on this journey, and I am thankful for the support system that I have,” she said.

An ambassador for Mackenzie’s Moment, a non-profit organization that holds an annual charity golf tournament, Lawson takes a lot of pride in being involved in the community.

She started her golf journey after attending a few golf camps as a kid and going on golf outings with her uncle during summer visits to Michigan. He paid for her first golf lesson and set of clubs.

During her sophomore year in college, Destiny took a break from playing basketball to further pursue a career in golf.

Having just turned pro in April, Lawson faced the challenge of not having a professional record. She relied on her collegiate performances and amateur golf credentials to show that she was ready to compete in a professional tournament.

Lawson has gained much confidence in her career pursuits now that she’s accomplished one of her lifelong goals of competing in the LPGA.

“Being a professional golfer, I know I can step up on golf’s biggest stage and compete with the world’s best players. Knowing that I do belong gives me the self-reassurance that I am meant for this,” she said.

Destiny is not resting on her laurels and hopes to continue to improve her game and participate in more tournaments. She knows it’s a lot of work. She spends most of her days working on areas of her game that will allow her to continue becoming a better player.

For Destiny, being able to compete at the highest stages proves that she can compete with the best golfers in the world.

“The best part for me is being able to see all my hard work pay off. I have the utmost belief in myself to be the best player,” she said.