For Bellamy, an energetic 8-year-old with a bright smile and an even brighter future, golf has become more than a game – it’s a gateway to growth, community and self-confidence. It all began when her kindergarten teacher introduced her to the sport. From there, Bellamy joined a program through the city of Columbus, where her passion blossomed, eventually leading her to LPGA-USGA Girls Golf (Girls Golf) at First Tee – Central Ohio.
What started as a casual interest quickly became a source of joy and opportunity. “It was really surprising that so young, she gravitated toward one sport,” shared her mother, Daniele. “I really appreciate golf because it opened this whole new life of opportunities for her.”
This past summer, Bellamy took her skills to the next level. In addition to Girls Golf classes, she joined a PGA Jr. League competition team, enjoying the new experience of team play. Eager for new challenges, she stepped into individual competition through local US Kids Golf events, where she quickly found success, earning first and second place finishes in her age group.
Bellamy’s achievements didn’t stop there. As a dual citizen of Brazil and the United States, thanks to her mother’s Brazilian heritage, Bellamy qualified for the US Kids Golf South American Golf Championship in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, following her standout performance at the US Kids Columbus Tour Championship. Competing internationally under the Brazilian flag was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – but also a daunting one. What gave Bellamy the final push she needed was the fact that her family lives in a nearby state about a 45 minute flight away from Rio, and would be able to come see her compete.
The tournament was held on the Olympic Golf Course in Rio, a stunning yet challenging venue with beautiful ocean views, strong winds and plenty of bunkers. Bellamy, both excited and anxious, eagerly faced the challenge ahead and was thrilled to compete with kids from 17 different countries all over South America. Fluent in Portuguese, Bellamy found herself navigating a multilingual environment where participants traded golf terms in three different languages.
One unforgettable moment was being invited to serve as the flag bearer for Brazil during the Parade of Nations. “I was very proud of her representing both of her cultures,” said Daniele. “She really embraced it.”
Bellamy’s favorite part of the tournament? “The animals on the course were so cool – capybaras, alligators, baby owls and even monkeys! They were everywhere!”
Bellamy’s hard work paid off, as she finished sixth in her age group –a result that filled both her and her family with pride. “I was so proud of Bellamy – proud of how courageous she was during the competition, how she was able to check and handle her emotions, and reset on her skills,” said Daniele. “It was amazing to see her as this little athlete with all these tools in her toolbox.”
Since her time in Brazil, Bellamy has received invitations to other international events, a testament to the doors opened by her dedication and the support of her coaches, her community and First Tee. While she hasn’t committed to any yet, she’s excited about the possibilities ahead.
“She’s taken on this identity of ‘I’m a golfer.’ She’s developing relationships that are beneficial for her,” said Daniele. “And she’s learning these additional skills outside of golf – like how to shake hands and introduce herself – that she has no idea she’s learning.“
Bellamy’s journey is a shining example of how First Tee impacts lives far beyond the golf course. Through the program, she’s gained more than just skills; she’s found mentorship, confidence and a love for sharing the game with others.
As Daniele put it, “One of the biggest gifts of this program is that it’s not just about golf – it’s really, truly about engagement with the kids. These coaches have poured into her life far beyond the weekly class. I have this huge village now of people who are super invested in her and can set her up for success.”
Make a Difference During 12 Days of Giving!
As we celebrate Bella’s experience, we invite you to help empower more youth like her by supporting First Tee – Central Ohio’s 12 Days of Giving Campaign. Your donation will help provide life-changing opportunities and ensure every kid has the chance to reach their full potential.
Our goal is to raise $50,000 by December 14th – will you help us continue impacting kids in Central Ohio?