Page 9 - Florida Sentinel 9-3-21

Feature
Businesswoman/Pro Golfer Wins Florida Open Championship
BY MONIQUE STAMPS Sentinel Staff Writer
Professional Black golfers are few and far in be- tween. However, many Blacks, mainly men find the sport a favorite pastime and hobby. Programs like First Tee are introducing more Black children to the game, however, many of these children don’t get to see themselves playing on a profes- sional level.
However, there is a bright light for supporters of Black golfers. At the Florida Open 2021, Dar- lene Allen placed first in the Senior Pro division.
Allen was born and raised in Tampa and didn’t start playing until she was 30 years old after seeing Michael Jordan play golf. She turned pro in 1999. She competes in about 10 – 12 tournaments per year. With COVID she only played 2 tourna- ments this year.
A Jefferson High School graduate, Allen was
all-county in track and basketball. She went to Texas Southern University on a full scholarship for track. Currently, she owns and operates the Rain- bow of Kids Academy Childcare Center along with being a golf professional.
Allen also manages a nonprofit, Birdie Babe, Inc., to empower women and families.
She is married to Steve Allen, and they try to do something golf-related every day.
To follow Allen’s career, visit her website at https://darleneallengolf.com
DARLENE ALLEN
....winner of the 2021 Florida Open Senior Pro divi-
sion.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2021 FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY PAGE 9-A