From Wild Card to Winners
Team North Florida wins the 10th Annual PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup
On Monday, May 12, 2025, the beautiful Carmel Country Club hosted the 10th Annual PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup, welcoming 12 teams of Veterans and PGA Professionals from across the country. Held alongside PGA Championship week, this inspirational event highlights the transformative impact of golf on the lives of Veterans through PGA HOPE, the flagship military program of PGA REACH, the charitable arm of the PGA of America.
Representing the North Florida PGA Section, a wildcard team from Jacksonville Beach, FL delivered an unforgettable performance, finishing 7-under-par in a 9-hole format. The team started off strong with a 50ft chip-in for birdie on the first hole by Army Veteran Felix Rios and the team’s momentum could not be stopped. The team ended up clinching the win with a birdie putt on the final hole by Army Veteran Don Moore. Their success was not just about score, it was a reflection of dedication, resilience, and the bonds formed through PGA HOPE.
Here’s a closer look at the players who made it happen:
Jack Aschenbach, a 23-year U.S. Navy Veteran and PGA Professional, has been a cornerstone of North Florida’s PGA HOPE efforts for years. A four-time Northern Chapter Patriot Award recipient, Jack is also the founder of the North Florida Junior Golf Tour, using golf as a bridge to mentor both youth and Veterans alike.
Ram Ramirez, a 14-year Marine Corps Ammunition Technician, joined PGA HOPE in 2022 and remained actively involved even after moving states. Through continued engagement in the program and its online community, Andrew found camaraderie and a renewed sense of purpose that lasted far beyond his initial session.
Felix Rios, served 26 years in the U.S. Army, including time with the ATF, and brings passion and leadership to both PGA HOPE and the Veteran Golfers Association. Originally from Puerto Rico, Felix dreams of expanding PGA HOPE’s reach to the island to share the life-changing power of golf with more Veterans.
Chris Hundley, a recently retired Navy Veteran of 11 years, discovered PGA HOPE after a medical retirement and found the connection he missed from military life. Alongside his wife Mayra, Chris now runs a local insurance agency while staying actively involved with the PGA HOPE community.
Don Moore, a Purple Heart recipient and Army Veteran, is a driving force in North Florida’s PGA HOPE program as an Area Captain. After graduating in 2023, he dove headfirst into the game. Now working in golf, mentoring other Veterans, and hand-selecting this winning team based on passion, not just performance.
The Secretary’s Cup weekend also included a welcome dinner at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, further emphasizing the PGA’s commitment to honoring those who served. For team North Florida and all who participated, the experience was a reminder that golf is far more than a game; it’s a path to healing, community, and hope.