Briar Megee’s Big Opportunity — and How You Can Help
Lewistown, MO – At just 12 years old, Briar Megee already has a golfing résumé that rivals many adults. His skill and dedication to the sport have earned him the opportunity of a lifetime: a chance to compete at the Optimist International Junior Golf Championship in Miami, Florida. The prestigious event will bring together top junior golfers from around the world — and Briar will be among them. But as the tournament nears, one final challenge remains: getting there.
A Rising Talent
Briar’s journey has already taken him across the country. Last year, he clinched several local events, which earned him the chance to compete at the Hurricane Junior Golf Invitational in Orlando, Florida, where he continued to show why he belongs among the nation’s top young golfers. He is currently competing in the Little People’s Golf Tournament in Quincy, IL — another key event in his summer schedule.
Among his many accomplishments, Briar has already won the Little People’s Tournament twice — at ages 4 and 5 — and placed third at age 8. He has also qualified twice for the IMG Junior World Championship in San Diego and competes regularly in summer tournaments while developing his skills at his home course, Three Pines Golf Course in Tolona, MO.
Optimist International Junior Golf Championship
The tournament takes place at the Trump National Doral Resort in Miami and runs from July 15–30, with Briar competing in the Boys 12–13 division from July 15–20.
Hosted by Optimist International, a service organization with over 3,000 clubs worldwide, the championship has long served as a launching pad for future stars. Past competitors include Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Ernie Els, Scottie Scheffler, Wyndham Clark, and Lexi Thompson — proof of the elite stage Briar is stepping onto.
A Relentless Work Ethic
Behind the trophies and tournament invites is daily dedication. Briar says his routine includes swinging a club every day and playing in as many events as he can. “I swing a club every day, go to the course all the time,” he said. “Play in tournaments to get better.”
His love for the game started early. “I started when I was little and just kept playing,” Briar said. “It was fun.”
When asked who’s helped him the most, he points to his biggest supporters. “My parents, the guys I play with at Three Pines,” he said.
Though he doesn’t have a single favorite golfer these days, Briar said he enjoys watching all the pros and learning from their game.
Community Support & Family Pride
Briar’s story is more than just talent and hard work — it’s about community. Whether it’s encouraging words at tournaments or helping hands at home, the people of Lewis County have had his back.
“I like it,” Briar said. “They help a lot. It’s really nice of them to help me go play other places.”
And while many might feel pressure on such a big stage, Briar keeps it simple: “It doesn’t bother me, I just play.”
His father, Chris Megee, has watched the journey unfold with admiration. “I’ve just tried to be supportive. He has chosen to accomplish all this on his own. With the years of help and support from our course, local golf players, family, and friends, he’s found a spot on the course and in people’s hearts. That’s what I love about watching him throughout the past years.”
How You Can Help
The Megee family is currently seeking support to help cover travel and lodging expenses, which total around $3,500. Due to booking timelines and event registration, they are hoping to receive donations by June 22.
There are a few ways to help:
- Monetary donations can be dropped off at Three Pines Golf Course in Tolona, Briar’s home course.
- Digital donations are accepted via Venmo at venmo.com/u/briarmegee
- Spread the word — even if you can’t donate, sharing this story with friends or on social media is a great way to show support and build momentum.
Your support — big or small — helps get a talented young athlete to a world-class opportunity. And it reminds Briar that his hometown is behind him every step of the way.
One Swing at a Time
Briar Megee is already living a dream that most young golfers only imagine — playing on elite courses, competing in national tournaments, and doing it all with the heart of a small town behind him. With continued support, he’ll take the next big step in Miami, chasing opportunities one swing at a time.
