Teen Disc Golf Pro Runs Her Own Tournament Circuit with Confidence and Passion

Lucy Burks is an unlikely sensation in the world of disc golf. At just 14 years old, this Oregon native has already made a name for herself on the course with her impressive skills and charismatic personality. But what's even more remarkable is that Lucy is also running her own tournament circuit, directing six events across her home state.

With a 773 rating and 20 career wins under her belt, Lucy has earned the respect of her peers and mentors alike. Her favorite subject in school is history, but she's got her sights set on becoming a doctor or nurse. However, it's her passion for disc golf that drives her to excel both on and off the course.

Lucy's journey into tournament directing began when she partnered with Throw Pink, an organization co-founded by Sara Nicholson. Under their guidance, Lucy has honed her leadership skills and discovered her natural ability to connect with people of all ages. "I'm like 30 maturely," Lucy jokes, but it's clear that she's got a unique gift for inspiring others.

As tournament director, Lucy takes charge with confidence and poise. Her outgoing personality and infectious enthusiasm have drawn in players from all over the state, including several new members who joined the PDGA just to participate in her events. "That's growing the sport," says her dad, Marcus Burks, who provides moral support behind the scenes.

Lucy's impact extends beyond her own events, too. She's a regular volunteer at the Beaver State Fling and has formed a lasting bond with local pro Luis Nava. When asked to caddy for him during an event, Lucy impressed Nava with her strategic thinking and disc golf knowledge. "She was like a seasoned pro," he says.

As Lucy continues to grow as a player and leader, it's clear that she's got the potential to make a lasting impact on the sport. With her passion, dedication, and natural charm, she's already won over hearts and minds in the disc golf community. Whether she knows it yet or not, Lucy Burks is an inspiration to us all.

Sara Nicholson, co-founder of Throw Pink, has been instrumental in helping Lucy develop her leadership skills. "She's so charismatic," Nicholson says. "She just walks up to you out of nowhere and asks about your favorite part of the event." It's a quality that's served Lucy well in her role as tournament director.

Marcus Burks, Lucy's dad, is quick to give credit where credit is due. "I've been applying the same principles I learned in Boy Scouts to making other people into leaders," he says. "Lucy's been kind of my victim." But it's clear that Lucy's success is a result of her own hard work and dedication.

As for what drives Lucy to excel, she cites her love for disc golf as the main motivator. "I just want to make more people happy with this sport," she says. Whether through running events or inspiring others on the course, Lucy Burks is certainly making waves in the world of disc golf.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/local-limelight-portland