Baton Rouge, LA – Today, we’re proud to highlight one of Louisiana’s golfing legends, Mr. Gayle Sanchez from Baton Rouge. Gayle’s amateur golf career is nothing short of remarkable, having competed in every major USGA championship, with the exception of the Junior Amateur. His story is one of dedication, resilience, and a lifelong love for the game.
In a recent interview, Gayle reflected on how golf has shaped his life, opening doors to unforgettable experiences. “Golf opened so many doors for me, I can’t even begin to explain it,” he shared. Qualifying for his first U.S. Open was a pivotal moment, one that introduced him to a world of elite amateur tournaments across the U.S. From there, he went on to compete in events that many can only dream of, meeting “the most wonderful people” along the way.
Gayle’s golfing journey began in the heart of Baton Rouge at Howell Park. “I started off at Howell Park with my dad, mama, and little brother. We’d play baseball in the mornings, then head to the golf course. It was a glorious time,” he reminisced. Those early days laid the foundation for a career filled with success and memorable victories. His triumphs include winning the prestigious Coleman Invitational at Seminole, the Crump Cup at Pine Valley, and taking home both the medal and match play titles at the National Golf Links Senior Championship.
When we asked Gayle what message he had for today’s young golfers, his words were simple but powerful: “No matter what your peers tell you, you can overcome and win in golf.” He speaks from experience. After graduating from dental school, Gayle was a 6-handicap golfer shooting in the 80s. Determined to improve, he spent two years honing his “Short” game under the guidance of Buddy Short, who “was the best golfer in Louisiana at the time,” Gayle explained. Just three years later, he found himself competing in the U.S. Open. Proud of his accomplishments, Gayle went to Burt Burdick, the golf pro at Shenandoah at the time, and said, “What do you think now?” Burt replied, “I forgot what a fanatic you were.”
Gayle’s journey is a true testament to the belief that, with hard work and a love for the game, anything is possible. His story inspires all of us—whether we’re just starting out or have been playing for decades—to keep pushing, keep practicing, and to never lose sight of what makes golf so special.
To watch Gayle’s Interview click here
About the LGA
The Louisiana Golf Association (LGA) is a mission-driven organization dedicated to unifying the golf community across Louisiana. Since its inception in 1920, the LGA has expanded its scope to offer a variety of championships, including the Junior Amateur Championship and the Louisiana Junior Golf Tour. The LGA is committed to providing exceptional services in Championship Administration, USGA Handicap System oversight, and Rules of Golf authority, ensuring fair play and integrity throughout the state.
The LGA supports golfers of all levels through its Course Measuring and Rating services, comprehensive tournament management, and educational seminars on the Rules of Golf and Amateur Status. By partnering with entities like the Audubon Golf Trail and Gulf States PGA, the LGA fosters growth and inclusivity in the sport.
As the authoritative body for amateur golf in Louisiana, the LGA maintains the WHS Handicap Index, crucial for assessing individual performance, and continues to uphold the game’s traditions and values. For more information, visit LGA.org or contact us at 337-265-3938.
For Media Inquiries:
Maili Bartz
Director of Marketing and Communications
maili@lgagolf.org