Golf Fans Can’t Stop as Billy Horschel Channels Dad’s Gator-Wrangling Skills at Cognizant Classic: “Grabbing Their Tail”
Golf is a sport that requires precision, skill, and nerves of steel. But at the Cognizant Classic, fans witnessed a different kind of skill on display – gator-wrangling. Yes, you read that right. Professional golfer Billy Horschel channeled his inner Steve Irwin as he grabbed the tail of an alligator during the tournament.
It’s not every day that you see a golfer taking on an alligator on the course. But for Horschel, it seemed like just another day at the office. The incident took place on the 6th hole at the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, and it left the crowd in awe.
For those who don’t know, Horschel comes from a family of alligator wrestlers. His father, Billy Horschel Sr., used to wrestle alligators for a living before becoming a golf course superintendent. So, it’s safe to say that gator-wrangling runs in the family.
But even with his family background, Horschel’s daring move left everyone surprised. As he approached the water hazard, he noticed an alligator lurking in the water. Without hesitation, he grabbed its tail and pulled it out of the water, much to the shock and amazement of the spectators.
Horschel later revealed that he had no intention of harming the alligator and was just trying to move it away from the golfers. He also added that he has been trained by his father to handle alligators since he was a child. “I’ve been around them my whole life, so I know what I’m doing,” he said.
But this wasn’t the first time Horschel has encountered an alligator on the course. In 2015, he had a similar encounter with an alligator at Doral, where he playfully shadow-boxed with the reptile from a safe distance. However, this time, he took it up a notch by actually grabbing its tail.
The incident has sparked a lot of reactions from golf fans and players alike. Many have praised Horschel for his bravery and skill, while others have joked about his potential career as an alligator wrestler. But one thing is for sure, Horschel’s gator-wrangling skills have left a lasting impression on everyone.
The Cognizant Classic has always been known for its challenging course and unpredictable weather conditions. But this year, it will also be remembered for Horschel’s daring move. It just goes to show that in golf, anything can happen, and sometimes, it’s not just about the game.
Horschel’s actions have also shed light on the importance of coexisting with wildlife on golf courses. Alligators are a common sight on golf courses in Florida, and it’s crucial for players to know how to handle them safely. Horschel’s display of skill and respect towards the alligator serves as a reminder that we can peacefully coexist with these creatures.
In the end, Horschel’s gator-wrangling skills didn’t just entertain the crowd, but it also showed his love and respect for the sport and the wildlife that surrounds it. As golf fans, we can’t wait to see what other surprises the Cognizant Classic has in store for us. Who knows, maybe we’ll see Horschel taking on a crocodile next time.
