My name is Ben Keogh, and I’m chasing a dream I thought was lost — becoming a professional golfer.

My name is Ben Keogh, a proud Territorian growing up in Humpty Doo and Howard Springs. I’m a dedicated amateur golfer currently traveling full-time across Australia to pursue my dream of turning professional. My journey to this point hasn’t been conventional, but it’s been built on hard work, self-belief, and a deep passion for the game of golf.

I first picked up a golf club at age 3 and developed quickly, reaching a +1 handicap by the time I was 15. At that stage, golf was my life. I trained hard and played harder, chasing excellence with the support of my family. However, after a difficult personal decision and a breakdown in support at home, I stepped away from golf to focus on becoming financially independent. I left school and began working in my family's fuel station before moving into the mining industry in the Northern Territory, where I remained for over a decade.

Working in the mines taught me resilience, discipline, and how to perform under pressure — skills I now bring back to the game I never stopped loving. For years, I told myself I’d return “one day.” That day finally came in mid-2023.

I returned to golf in August 2023 after 13 years away. My starting handicap was 17.7. Since then, I’ve trained almost daily while continuing to support my family working FIFO up until November last year, and my handicap has dropped to +1 in just 1.8 years. My lowest recent round is 66 (Par 72), and I now train and compete six days a week across Queensland, soon heading to Victoria as part of my Q-School preparation.

I’m not just chasing a dream — I’m building one, with my wife and young son by my side. We’ve sold our home and now live on the road in a caravan to give this dream every chance to succeed. We’ve committed everything to this journey.

Now, I’m seeking your support through the Australian Sports Foundation to help cover:

• Tournament entry fees
• Flights and accommodation to events
• Fuel for travel between competitions
• Golf essentials (balls, gloves, shoes)

Here’s what next month looks like, if we can manage to fundraise enough money:

July 3–5 – Rockhampton Pro/AM

July 11–13 – Darwin NT Classic

July 15 – Tin Can Bay Pro/AM

July 18–20 – Portsea Open AM (already paid and booked!)\

Potential July 21–22 – Coolangatta/Tweed Heads

July 23 – Howeston Pro/AM

July 25–27 – Darwin Open

July 31 – Windaroo Lakes Pro/AM

Every donation goes through the Australian Sports Foundation and is only released for approved sporting expenses. All contributions over $2 are tax-deductible and help keep this dream alive.

Thank you for believing in the power of second chances.

Ben Keogh

I’m proving that with determination and support, it's never too late to pursue your passion. Your contribution can make a tangible difference in this journey.

Thank you for being part of this comeback story.