Biography
Brent Buckman stands as a towering figure in the realm of golf, recognized for his unparalleled contributions as a golf professional, teacher, and leader. A PGA member for an impressive 46 years, Brent has dedicated his life to the sport, leaving a legacy that has profoundly shaped the golfing community in Texas and beyond.
Throughout his illustrious career, Brent has accumulated numerous accolades, underscoring his excellence both on and off the course. His peers honored him as the Southern Texas PGA Professional of the Year in 2003, a recognition of his outstanding service and leadership. Additionally, he served as the past president of the STPGA Alamo Chapter, where his leadership played a pivotal role in advancing the sport and mentoring upcoming golf professionals.
Brent's playing history is equally distinguished. He competed in prestigious tournaments such as the PGA Championship at Crooked Stick in 1991, the U.S. Open at Cherry Hills in 1978, and the PGA Senior Championship at Firestone in 2002. His competitive spirit and skill led him to win the Southern Texas PGA Championship in 1990 and the Texas Pro-Assistant Championship three times between 1989 and 1991. Notably, he was a member of the NCAA National Champion Golf Team at the University of Texas from 1971 to 1972, where he also served as team captain.
In his executive career, Brent has been a transformative figure in the club industry, developing and managing several premier golf clubs. His roles have included serving as Vice President of Sales & Operations and later as Senior Vice President of Golf & Club Experience at Driftwood Golf and Ranch Club in Texas, as well as Executive General Manager for Discovery Land Company in California, overseeing operations for multiple high-profile projects.
Brent's contributions extend beyond management to the broader golfing community. As a co-founder of the Hannon Cup Association, he has been instrumental in supporting junior golf in Texas, helping to distribute over $600,000 in educational scholarships.
As a teacher, Brent founded the CCA Regional Golf Advantage School and the Barton Creek Golf Advantage School, where he was known for his unique ability to create personalized and engaging student experiences. His teaching philosophy, which often combined humor with a deep understanding of the game, has inspired confidence and skill in countless students, particularly juniors.
Brent Buckman’s induction into the Texas Golf Hall of Fame in the Golf Professional/Teacher category is a testament to a career marked by excellence, leadership, and a genuine passion for the game. His legacy as a player, mentor, and industry leader continues to inspire and elevate the sport of golf in Texas.
Legacy Video
Inductee Highlights
- PGA Member 46 Years
- STPGA Professional of the Year – 2003
- Past President, STPGA Alamo Chapter
Playing History
- PGA Sr. Championship, Firestone – 2002
- PGA Championship, Crooked Stick – 1991
- Southern Texas PGA Champion – 1990
- Joe Black Cup, 15 years, record 24-13-4
- Texas Pro-Assistant Champion – 1989-1991
- PGA Alamo Chapter Champion – 1983 & 1984
- Southern Texas PGA Player of the Year – 1983
- U.S. Open, Cherry Hills – 1978
- NCAA National Champion Golf Team, University of Texas, 1971-1972
Multi-Sport Athlete
As a youngster, Brent played every sport he could. Although golf was not immediately his favorite, it ultimately became his passion.
The Origin of the Hannon Cup Association...
In 1997, Brent was involved in the creation of the George Hannon Cup, which was an annual competition between the best Austin area pros and amateurs. The event quickly became a success and evolved into a fundraising organization benefiting junior golfers. The Hannon Cup Association contributes to golf scholarships, supports the Austin Junior Golf Academy, hosts the George Hannon Junior Invitational, and conducts the Hannon Cup Matches. These activities are made possible by a “Society” of large donors to the Hannon Cup Association.
"There Is Nothing You Can Screw Up That I Can't Fix" - Mentor Robert Stiegler
At the age of 15, Brent started working after school in a local golf shop. His first day of work, the golf pro who hired him - Bob Stiegler - gave him a quick tutorial on his many duties then promptly left Brent by himself to manage things. From this overwhelming start, Brent began his education about the golf business. In the time the two worked together, Mr. Stiegler personified qualities like trust, responsibility, persistence and kindness in a manner that made such an impact on Brent that he still calls Bob Stiegler the best mentor he ever had.
My Roommate, Ben Crenshaw
More than just a college roommate, Ben Crenshaw inspired Brent and helped shape his thoughts about the game of golf.
Keepsake - First Time with Arnold Palmer
As a young golf professional, Brent was delighted to meet Arnold Palmer.
Quick Nine with Brent
Brent Buckman - UT Golf Team 1972
Brent Buckman and Arnold Palmer
Brent Buckman and Jimmy Demaret
Brent Buckman - Portrait
Brent Buckman - UT Golf Team 1971-72
Brent Buckman Consulting
Brent Buckman with Austin Pros
Deep Dives
Brent Buckman - Childhood Golf, Playing Every Sport
This exhibit is generously sponsored by the Hannon Society.