The Hike | Ethan Bennett

Support Ethan and his efforts at National Links Trust’s ‘The Hike at East Potomac’ on Monday, June 9th

Everything I have, I owe to the game of golf. I struck my first golf ball at a publicly accessible driving range in Canada, where I fell in love with the game. My first job was at a publicly accessible golf course where I spent long hours working, cleaning clubs, and learning lessons that extended far beyond fairways. That same course gave me the opportunity to hone my  skills, earn a scholarship, and ultimately bring my love of the game to the U.S., where I’ve played on some of the country’s most historic public courses and experienced firsthand how golf transcends borders, backgrounds, and communities. And, believe it or not, golf even led me to my fiancée. Looking back, I can say with certainty that accessible, affordable golf shaped who I am and the life I’m fortunate to live.

Today, golf remains at the center of my life – not just as a game, but as a way to connect with the people I care about most. Whether it’s playing Friday night couples league with my fiancée(who actually played her first nine-hole round at East Potomac), weekend rounds with friends, or evening games with family, I’ve found both competition and community through golf. I’m often the go-to ‘ringer’ when local organizations need a competitive edge in scrambles, but it’s never just about winning—it’s about meeting new people, supporting great causes, and strengthening the bonds that make this game special.

That’s why I’m taking on the 100 Hole Hike at East Potomac—to support the National Links Trust and its mission to preserve and enhance municipal golf. The future of the game isn’t in exclusive country clubs—it’s on public courses, driving ranges, and pitch-and-putts that give everyone a chance to play. Through efforts like the Nation’s Capital Project, National Links Trust is ensuring that historic public courses remain vibrant, accessible, and an asset to their communities.

Walking 100 holes in a day will certainly be a challenge, but it’s nothing compared to what I owe to the game and what golf has given me. I’m proud to take on this hike to help protect and expand access to the game that has given me so much

- Ethan

WAYS TO Support

Supporters of Ethan’s efforts have the option to donate in an upfront donation and/or pledge their donation based on number of holes played, birdies or eagles made, and more. Please use the below buttons to contribute. Thank you!