The Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin saw a heartwarming prelude as celebrities and professional athletes came together for the annual Workday Golden Cub Pro-Am. This event pairs professional golfers with A-list athletes and celebrities to raise awareness and support for Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
This year's event was especially memorable, featuring a star-studded lineup. Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy played alongside Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning, former Buckeye and U.S. Representative Anthony Gonzalez, and Hollywood actor Chris Pratt. The golden cubs, who are current or former patients at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, had the chance to meet these stars, collect autographs, and take pictures, creating cherished memories.
The highlight of the day was Chris Pratt's thrilling chip-in for birdie on the course's most challenging hole, the number one handicap. “The crowd behind me exploded, and for a brief moment, I knew what it felt like to be a professional golfer, and it was pretty darn cool,” Pratt recounted with joy.
Despite admitting to some embarrassing moments on the course, Pratt emphasized the fun and meaningful nature of the event. “I know what to expect out here. I’m not a professional golfer, but man, it’s been a lot of fun. Rory is great, so nice, so gracious, and playing with Peyton Manning, it’s just cool, man. It’s good to be here,” he shared.
Adding to the event's impact, one of the golden cubs distributed gold ribbons symbolizing pediatric cancer awareness, which many celebrities wore proudly during the game. Pratt had a heartfelt message for the children at Nationwide Children’s Hospital:
“I want to say that I’m thinking about you, that I love you, that I’m praying for you, God bless you. Be strong. And take it from Star Lord, you got this.”
Other notable participants included Memorial honoree Juli Inkster, actor Rob Lowe, and three-time World Series champion Buster Posey. The main event, the Memorial Tournament, kicks off tomorrow, with the final round scheduled to take place at Muirfield on Sunday.
