DAYTON, OH — The Southern Ohio PGA is proud to congratulate the newest member of the PGA of America in our section, Taylor Holt, PGA! Taylor was elected to membership in 2026 and is an Assistant Professional at The Lakes Golf & Country Club in Westerville.

Say hello to Taylor today via email at Tholt@lakesclub.com.

The SOPGA caught up with Taylor to talk about his journey to becoming a member of the PGA of America.

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

Taylor Holt, PGA: As a baby in a high chair my dad hit golf balls in the garage and played the tape of the 1997 masters on VHS all the time. I was on a golf course as soon as I could crawl and have loved the game ever since.

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

TH: I love helping people and there’s no better feeling than watching it “click” with a student. Whether it’s through teaching, coaching, or club fitting, it’s so satisfying and rewarding to help students reach and exceed their golf goals.

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

TH: The community of members is second to none and I’ve learned so much already going through the associate program. I’m looking forward to continuing to help my students and members achieve their goals and to be a fierce competitor in section and national events.

SOPGA: What about the game makes you LOVE golf?

TH: The perfectly struck shot, the ball rolling end over end as it drops in the cup, and the satisfaction of watching others succeed all make me love this game. It’s a beautiful game that I will always pursue both in my own skills and in helping others.

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

TH: Rob Karnes, PGA and Master Professional gave me a chance at Dayton Country Club and got me into the PGA PGM program and I will always be thankful for him. Jeff Lessig, PGA gave me my first full time job as a golf professional and I learned so much from him on how to serve a membership. Eddie Kline, PGA has been a wonderful influence daily on how a golf professional manages the day-to-day tasks to represent the organization as well as possible.