For the Bowmans, golf is family. Kory Bowman is the former golf coach at Missouri State and has played in multiple PGA events. His son, Max, has been a decorated golfer for Glendale, who’s headed to play for the Bears in the fall. Kory’s daughter, Page, is a rising star for the Lady Falcons too. But only one can boast about it. “We call it the family belt,” Kory said. “Whoever has bragging rights can talk the most trash.”
It’s not an actual belt, but a metaphor. Kory admits he hasn’t had the belt much lately. “Page gets in the mix sometimes,” he said. “Max does right now. But hopefully not for long.”
Max admits he talks the most trash in the family. But he and Kory are playing for more than just the belt at the Missouri Amateur Championships at Payne’s Valley Golf Course. “Last time I think he beat me in this,” Max said. “But I was like, 15.”
“It’s tough to have your son or daughter in the tournament because I really care more about how they play than how I play,” Kory said.
Perhaps Max could take advantage of his dad’s soft side. In the first round, Kory was playing two groups ahead of Max. But Max didn’t ask his father for advice on the hole Kory had just played. “I don’t know if we’re allowed to do that,” Max joked, “But yeah, I’ve definitely thought about it a few times.”
“I usually turn my phone off,” Kory said, with a laugh.
The Bowmans don’t typically make bets on the course for a simple reason. “I don’t have a lot to give, Max said.
Hey, maybe some extra chores would work?
“No, Max doesn’t have a ton of chores anyways,” Kory said. “But that’s a good idea though, thanks, Chris.”
Whether Max actually picks up more chores around the house remains to be seen. For now, Max and Kory will be focused on a weekend of golf as Kory has qualified for the Round of 64 in the amateur championships.
