A Century of Inspiration: Carl Hallberg’s PGA HOPE Journey

Myrtle Beach, SC – Carl Hallberg first learned about PGA HOPE during a routine appointment at the VA, where the program was introduced to him as a six-week, no-cost golf experience designed to connect veterans through the game of golf. Angel Diaz, PGA, Director of ProjectGolf.org and PGA HOPE lead for Myrtle Beach, remembered that first meeting well.

“We explained how PGA Professionals would guide him, improve his technique, and provide a welcoming community,” Diaz recalled. “We assisted him in registering for the next class and hoped he would attend.”

Carl not only attended, he quickly became the heartbeat of the program. At 100 years old, he approached every session with unmatched enthusiasm. “He was always the first one to arrive for class every week because he was excited to learn something new,” Diaz said. “Carl even told me he thought the VA was doing a fantastic job referring veterans to PGA HOPE, because it not only helps their golf game but also supports their mental health and builds community.”

Carl’s impact on the group was immediate. The Myrtle Beach session included 22 veterans, ranging from Vietnam-era service members to active-duty personnel, but Diaz said Carl’s presence elevated the experience for everyone. “Having a 100-year-old WWII veteran in the group made this class extraordinary,” Diaz shared. “The other veterans were captivated by his stories, but even more inspired by his vitality. His presence dissolved any excuses about being ‘too old’ or ‘too late’ to try something new.”

One highlight came during a weekly skills challenge, where the veterans attempted a 50-foot chip shot. The best attempt was about 10 feet from the hole, until Carl stepped up. “Carl was the last to go, and his ball rolled within inches,” Diaz said. “The class erupted in applause. His reaction was priceless. He laughed and said it wasn’t even his best stroke, but he was thankful to win the contest.”

For Diaz, what stands out most is Carl’s perspective.

“Carl has mastered something that eludes golfers half his age: perspective,” Diaz said. “He understands that golf is about peace, camaraderie, and gratitude. When a 100-year-old veteran lights up about his latest round, it transforms everyone around him.”

Carl’s story shows the lasting impact PGA HOPE can have on veterans’ lives, both on and off the course. He didn’t take up the game until age 65, yet what began as a new hobby quickly grew into a lifelong passion. Over the past 35 years, golf has provided him with purpose, camaraderie, and a community to lean on. That sense of belonging was especially evident earlier this year when Carl reached an incredible milestone, his 100th birthday. His Thursday golf group at The Hackler Course at Coastal Carolina surprised him with a celebration on the course, honoring not only his century of life but also the decades of memories and friendships the game has given him.

“Carl embodies the very heart of PGA HOPE,” Diaz said. “He didn’t just participate, he elevated the program. His example reminds us all that our best chapters might still be ahead of us.”