Team USA golfer David Curtin with professional golfer Stephanie Louden

Special Olympics athletes continually show the world what they can do through the power of the human spirit.  This is true of Team USA golf athlete David Curtin.  David has been training and competing in Special Olympics golf and softball events for more than 16 years.  He trains each fall and spring at the Burke Lake Golf Course in Fairfax County, Va. 

On May 2, David and fellow Team USA golf athlete Grace Anne Braxton were part of a foursome playing in a pro-am tournament.  The course play was awesome, and a birdie was one of his accolades for the day.  

The fun continued the next day at the LPGA Invitational Pro-Am tournament. The organizers, Azalea Charities, asked David to help with the tournament as well as watch some rounds of golf.  When he arrived, there was an open spot for a golfer, and David eagerly signed on with LPGA golfer Stephanie Louden.   Stephanie took second place in the tournament and helped David score a 107 for 18 holes.  This was an awesome opportunity and a fantastic round of golf!               

Special Olympics has given David the opportunity to compete in sports in a structured setting and make new friends.  He has gained self-confidence that has helped him in his job at Smart Wash, an ecologically green car wash.  He also provides lawn mowing services for several of his neighbors.  While David puts a lot of hard work into his jobs and Special Olympics, he also takes time to enjoy listening to music, watching movies and following Redskins and Braves games. 

In preparation for golf competition at the Special Olympics World Games in Athens, Greece, David trains each day by playing Wii games, riding his bike, and playing golf.  He is excited to participate in the 2011 World Games in Athens!