Notah Begay

Notah Begay III is a distinguished American professional golfer and sports analyst, recognized for his significant contributions to the sport and his community. A graduate of Stanford University, where he was a three-time All-American and a member of the 1994 NCAA Championship team alongside Tiger Woods, Begay turned professional in 1995. His early career was marked by remarkable achievements, including shooting a 59 during the Nike Tour Dominion Open in 1998, a feat accomplished by only a select few golfers. He secured his PGA Tour card in 1999 and went on to win four tournaments within a span of nine months, showcasing his exceptional talent and determination.

Throughout his career, Begay has been a trailblazer for Native American golfers, becoming one of the few to compete at the highest levels of the sport. His innovative approach to putting, utilizing a unique technique that allowed him to switch hands based on the break of the putt, set him apart from his peers. He achieved a top-20 ranking in the Official World Golf Rankings and was named one of Golf Magazine’s Innovators of the Year in 2009, further solidifying his legacy in the golfing community.

In addition to his playing career, Begay has made significant strides as a sports analyst for NBC Sports and the Golf Channel since 2013. His insights and expertise have enriched golf broadcasts, making him a respected voice in the sport. Beyond broadcasting, he founded the Notah Begay III Foundation in 2005, aimed at promoting health and wellness among Native American youth through sports programs, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to his community.

Begay’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident through his ventures, including NB3 Consulting, which focuses on developing golf courses in tribal communities, and KivaSun Foods, which promotes bison-based products. His influence extends beyond golf, inspiring future generations, including his niece Madison Hammond, the first Native American player in the National Women’s Soccer League. Notah Begay III continues to be a prominent figure in sports, advocating for Native American causes and fostering growth within the golfing community.