A Texas teen, Shyla Brown, is making history as the youngest Black Junior Golf Champion. On Monday, the 15-year-old became among the only four nationally ranked high school golfers selected to compete in the Southwest Airlines Showcase at Cedar Crest.
At eight years old, she discovered a new interest in golf after watching her parents play.
“Both of my parents played. You know, when you’re that young, you kind of take up what your parents are doing. I found it enjoyable,” the McKinney native told WFAA.
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By earning a spot on the 2023 American Junior Golf All-Star Team, Brown becomes the second Black American to do so. At just 15, Brown knows the responsibilities she will take on with her newfound success. She told WFAA that she is happy to walk in the footsteps of golf legends.
“It means a lot to me. The history behind Cedar Crest that’s been held there … Pioneers like Charles Sifford, walking in his footsteps, it means a lot to me,” Brown said.
She revealed that her inspiration came from her family and coaches and saw her peers’ success as a driving force for her elevation.
“Too much is given, much is required,” Brown said. “The more blessings that are given to me, the more responsibilities I hold to uphold those blessings.”
Brown is also a dedicated student — navigating her studies and a marching band member. Outside of being an average teen, she keeps her eye on the prize — to become a professional golfer.
“I want to get through college. Go professional and not even just get on the tour. Be one of the greatest,” she said.
