Get into the SWING of Things

Bob Wilcox of Trinity Presbyterian is a man of many talents! Whether it’s gardening or cooking, the grandfather of two lets his hands do the talking. Wilcox is an avid golfer who not only enjoys the game but sees it as a way to serve his community. He says being involved with the Wes Geary Memorial Tournament is a “Win-Win” for everyone. We sat down with Wilcox to find out what makes this event work.

PCHAS: How long have you been involved with the Wes Geary Memorial Tournament?

Bob Wilcox: I began assisting with the event at the first Tournament held in 2011. At that time the event was called the Wes Geary Classic, named in honor of U.S. Army Col. (Chaplain) Wes Geary who was an advocate for at risk children and families and a ardent supporter of PCHAS. Initial leadership fell to TPC member Fred Cook. I succeeded Fred as leader in 2016.

PCHAS: What does tournament mean to Trinity Presbyterian – why are members committed to it?

Bob Wilcox: Trinity members believe strongly in the PCHAS mission and are committed to supporting its work. PCHAS is the primary missions focus at TPC from July through September. Members have come to associate the school supplies program and the annual golf tournament with TPC’s continuing commitment to PCHAS and rally to support these events each year. Members appreciate that the tournament exemplifies outreach and provides an opportunity to “give back” in a fun and fellowship rich way.

PCHAS: Why is the tournament important to the community?

Bob Wilcox: Supporting “at risk” families and kids is universally appealing and individuals both inside and outside of the Trinity community take pride and pleasure in supporting the event benefiting PCHAS. Tournament participation also provide a means for non-members to learn more about Trinity Presbyterian.

PCHAS: What do people / volunteers say about this event?

Bob Wilcox: Players, sponsors, and volunteers alike understand that Wes Geary is “All About the Kids” and express satisfaction in being a part of a worthy cause.

Players appreciate participating in a well- run event, meeting new people, and enjoying the Christ centered fellowship our tournament provides.

PCHAS: Tell us about a memorable moment from the tournament?

Bob Wilcox: Our 2019 tournament player count reached 85 which (for me) was a memorable moment in tournament’s history. A field of 75-110 is our player goal for each event and we’re hopeful that engaging other area churches will allow us to reach and maintain that level of participation.

PCHAS: Name your favorite professional golfer?

Bob Wilcox: My current Regular PGA tour favorite is local pro Jordan Spieth. Jordan has wonderful golf talent, and his personality makes him a great ambassador for the game. My favorite Senior PGA tour player is Fred Couples. I try to model my golf swing after Freddy. At age 63 he’s still very competitive and super smooth. Also a great ambassador for the game.

PCHAS: Who do you consider to be the greatest golfer?

Bob Wilcox: I’ll have to go with Jack (The Golden Bear) Nicholas as the greatest with Arnold Palmer a close second. However, had Tiger Woods remained healthy, I believe he would have easily eclipsed Jack’s record of tournament wins and gone on to dominate the senior tour.

PCHAS: Have you ever had a hole in one?

Bob Wilcox: Glad you asked. Over the course of my golfing career, I’ve been blessed with four (4) holes in one. One in Missouri, and three here in Texas. Unfortunately, none of them won me big money.