Wounded warriors tee off for golf club fitting at Humana Challenge

Two wounded warriors lined up next to the golf pros Monday, hitting the driving range at the Humana Challenge at PGA West in La Quinta for the Callaway Warrior Club Fitting.

Justin Crabbe loves to golf. He was hurt serving in the Marine Corps three years ago, and hasn’t taken a swing at it since, until now.

“I was in Afghanistan. We were on foot patrol and I stepped on an IED, lost both of my legs right above the knee and multiple fingers on both hands,” said Crabbe.

Thanks to Birdies for the Brave, a national military outreach created in 2006 by PGA TOUR player, Phil Mickelson, and supported by the PGA Tour, the wounded warriors got fitted for golf clubs that best suit their game, including irons, woods, a putter and a golf bag of their own.

With a brand new, custom set of clubs, the wounded warriors can hone in on their golf game feeling more competitive, athletic and confident once again.

“I was able to come out and swing with a pair of golf clubs that actually fit me. I was able to hit the ball decent this time. Still trying to get my swing back, but it’s nice I can hit with a pair of clubs that fit me,” said Crabbe.

“It’s definitely getting some clubs that are good for me, that will help me, and to be in an atmosphere of being a pro for a day is pretty awesome,” said Glenn-Camden.

Callway provides 20 military men and women with them a year.

“It’s one of those things that’s an honor to do to give back to these guys who’ve given so much and sacrificed so much,” said Barry Lyda, tour representative for Callaway Golf.

The war heroes will receive their custom set of clubs during the Military Appreciation Ceremony on Saturday.

Military men and women are invited to the Humana Military Outpost during the tournament, a military hospitality tent located between 1st tee and 9th green on the Arnold Palmer course. The tent is open Thursday to Sunday and will provide complimentary food and beverages for military and their family.