Andrew Bieniek is entering 3rd grade at Woodsdale Elementary School. He has a head full of curly, blonde hair and a smile that spreads up to his eyes. Andrew is also a newly-minted world championship golfer.
“So when I was little, maybe one or two, my daycare teachers asked my parents if I liked to play golf because I was always swinging at everything,” Andrew says smiling. A parental purchase of Fisher Price golf clubs showed a natural ability, and for Andrew’s toddler years, much of his free time was spent at Oglebay’s Par 3 enjoying the experience of golfing with his dad, Steve.
When Andrew continued progressing in skill, his family began entering him in tournaments. At age 5, Andrew competed for the first time, often dominating in his age division. “I just try to stay calm on the course,” Andrew states, adding that he also occasionally likes to listen to music while golfing.
This summer, Andrew traveled to Pinehurst, North Carolina to compete in the U.S. Kids Golf World Championship. U.S. Kids Golf is the largest junior golf organization in the world. Now, at only age 8, Andrew competed so well that he is not only a Level 14 (the highest level of achievement and competition in the organization), but finished tied for 5th. “What’s amazing to see is in these world champion winners, they’re often from other countries or from warmer climates, and we got to witness Wheeling, WV right in the middle of the pack,” states Andrew’s father, Steve.
When Andrew isn’t hitting golf balls more than 150 yards, he enjoys playing baseball and spending time with his friends. Andrew is also crystal clear on the one person in the world he’d choose to take golfing: “I’d take my dad,” says Andrew. Andrew will take the green again during the Pittsburgh Fall Tour.
Amazing work, Andrew. We are so incredibly proud of your accomplishments, and wish you the best school year!
