Powell, OH — The Southern Ohio PGA is proud to congratulate one of the newest members of the PGA of America in our section, Owen Carney, PGA! Owen was elected in June 2027.

Congratulate Owen today via email at Owencarney33@outlook.com or on his LinkedIn as well!

The SOPGA caught up with Owen to talk about his journey to becoming a member of the PGA of America, growing up in a golf family, and his plans for the future.

SOPGA: Who or what inspired you to get involved with the GAME of golf?

Owen Carney, PGA: My father was a PGA professional, so naturally, I was exposed to the game early on. I started out hitting balls with him on the range and the rest is history. He was a huge influence on me and coached me all through my junior and high school days.

SOPGA: Who or what inspired you to get involved with the BUSINESS of golf?

OC: When I was finishing up high school, I wasn’t entirely certain what path I wanted to take. I ultimately decided to attend Eastern Kentucky University and enter their PGA Golf Management program. It turned out to be a great choice for me as it allowed me to complete all my PGA coursework while simultaneously earning my degree.

SOPGA: What are you most looking forward to pursuing now that you are a PGA of America Member?

OC: I’m really looking forward to becoming a competitive golfer again. After high school, I didn’t take tournament golf as seriously as I should have. Now, getting to play in section events alongside so many talented golfers in the SOPGA motivates me to work hard on my game and be the absolute best golfer I can be.

SOPGA: What about the game makes you LOVE golf?

OC: Golf simply means everything to me. Whether it’s a high-stakes competitive round in a tournament or a casual emergency nine with friends, golf has been at the center of my life from the very beginning, and it always will be.

SOPGA: Have there been any mentors who have assisted your career along the way to PGA Membership that you would like to thank?

OC: I have several mentors who have made a massive impact on my journey:

  • Eastern Kentucky University PGM: I’d like to thank the entire staff at EKU for their support and guidance during my four years in the program.
  • Scioto Country Club: A big thank you to Joe Falardeau, PGA, Heath Virgin, PGA, and Ben Collie, PGA.
  • Inverness Club: Thanks to JJ Weaver, PGA and Michael Quinteros, PGA for everything during my time there.
  • Kinsale Golf and Fitness Club: Last but certainly not least, I want to extend a huge thank you to Bob Sowards, PGA and Andy Montgomery, PGA for all of their help on my path to PGA membership.