Picture this: A five-year-old boy gripping a golf club, unaware that his casual swings in the backyard would eventually lead him to a glittering career in professional golf. This is the tale of Bud Cauley, whose passion for golf was nurtured and harnessed by his biggest supporters – his parents, Bill and Melba Cauley.
Raised in a military household, Bud Cauley was taught the importance of punctuality and respect from an early age. His father, Bill, a U.S. Navy veteran of 20 years, instilled in him the value of time management and responsibility. Following a military-style discipline, the young Cauley learned that being “on time” actually meant being early. This upbringing undoubtedly contributed to the diligent and committed golfer we recognize today.
While discipline was a key focus, Melba Cauley, a reading coach, ensured that education was never compromised. To balance Bud’s golf commitments with his academic pursuits, the family chose homeschooling. This allowed Bud to fully immerse himself in the world of golf while keeping up with his studies – a bold yet significant decision.
Life was not all about discipline and golf for Bud. Growing up in a military family, he experienced the challenges of regular relocations. Bud spent part of his childhood in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and later in Guam. His stay in Guam was marked by memorable events such as an earthquake that almost threw him down the stairs of his home, and a hilarious encounter with a local reptile that gave his mother quite a fright.
Despite the frequent relocations and challenges, one constant remained – his passion for golf, nurtured and supported by his parents. This unwavering dedication and discipline started bearing fruit when Bud began dominating junior golf. By his teenage years, he was representing the U.S. at the 2006 Junior Ryder Cup. His talent led him to the University of Alabama, where he became a three-time first-team Golfweek All-American.
However, Bud’s journey to professional golf wasn’t always smooth. In 2011, he impressively earned his PGA Tour card in just eight starts, but his career was marred by a serious car accident in 2018. Recovery was tough, with multiple surgeries and significant injuries causing him to miss the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons. Yet, the discipline, perseverance, and gratitude instilled in him by his parents kept him going.
Even amidst the pressures of professional golf, Bud never forgot his military roots. He actively supports military charities like Birdies for the Brave, recognizing the sacrifices made by servicemen and women and their families. Bud is yet to claim his first PGA Tour victory, but his journey so far is a testament to the importance of not just talent, but also the support, lessons, and mindset that shape a successful career.