It’s been nearly three years since Macy Pate, then a sophomore at Reagan High School in north Forsyth County, attracted global fame by scoring an outrageously low 57 at her conference tournament at the Bermuda Run West course.
The round included 10 straight birdies and smashed the previous record of 61 by an N.C. high school female golfer. Pate had never broken 70 in competition until earlier that year.
For those who’ve never gotten close to striking a 57, we wanted to check Pate’s progress. She’s continued to excel at Wake Forest University, and was named the Atlantic Coast Conference Freshman of the Year for 2024. The Deacons won the ACC team title for the third time in the past six years, led by All American Rachel Kuehn, who captured the individual conference title.
Business North Carolina recently enjoyed a conversation with Macy. Here are a few of the highlights:
When did you know your historic round was going to be special?
Shooting 57 still feels unreal to me. Thinking back on it now, I still get butterflies. I showed up to the course with very few expectations that day. I was just trying to go out and have fun. My putter got hot, and I was just trying to keep it that way. It was like playing a video game.
Describe the thrill of winning back-to-back state high school team championships?
I was on the same team as two of my best friends and being able to share that experience with them was incredible. Playing high school golf taught me so many lessons about golf, but also about being a teammate.
What was it like arriving as a freshman to play for the defending national champions?
Arriving on campus to the best golf school in the country was very surreal. I’ve been able to be a part of a lot of celebrations of my teammates and coaches. I have really enjoyed that aspect. It also motivated me to work hard and help us try to win another [national championship].
You sunk the winning putt at one of your team’s early-season matches. What was that like?
Since I was a little girl, I’ve dreamed of being able to be in a situation to clinch the winning putt while wearing black and gold. I had that opportunity at the Stephens Cup, and I still smile when thinking of that moment.
What’s your daily routine?
I usually get up around 6:40 to head to our team workouts, then I will go to class. I will grab a quick lunch and head over to the golf house to start my practice. After practice, I grab some dinner, do some studying, and try to get as much sleep as possible.
Are you enjoying attending college so close to home?
It is very convenient. I usually go home once or twice a week to get a break from college life or to see my nephew, Carson. I enjoy getting a home-cooked meal and spending time with my family.
Favorite male and female golfers?
My favorite male golfer of all time has to be Tiger Woods or Arnold Palmer and my favorite female golfer is (Swedish LPGA player) Linn Grant. I just really admire her golf swing.
Aspirations for the future?
My dreams are to play pro golf after college for several years before settling down and starting a family. I would like to focus on that for a while and then maybe get back into golf. ■
