Barry Holt
Class of 2015
Barry Holt’s lifelong connection to golf began with a birthday gift and grew into a career that has touched nearly every aspect of the game.
Holt first discovered golf on his twelfth birthday when he received his first set of clubs. Soon afterward he attended a clinic conducted by renowned golf professional Sam Byrd at Willowbrook Country Club in Huntsville. That early introduction sparked a passion for the sport that would shape the rest of his life.
As a student-athlete at Grissom High School, Holt quickly developed into one of the area’s most promising young golfers. His performance earned him the opportunity to continue his career at the collegiate level, first at Brevard Junior College and later at Auburn University.
At Auburn, Holt became part of a strong Tigers golf program. In 1976 he helped Auburn capture the Southeastern Conference championship, an achievement that placed the team among the nation’s elite collegiate programs.
After completing his college career, Holt pursued professional opportunities within the golf industry. He gained valuable experience working at prestigious golf facilities across the country, including Tamarack Country Club in Connecticut, where he further developed his skills as both a player and golf professional.
Eventually Holt returned to Huntsville, where he continued building his reputation as a respected golf professional. He served as head professional at Willowbrook Country Club and later at Cherokee Ridge, helping golfers of all abilities improve their games.
Holt’s playing ability also earned him the opportunity to compete in some of the sport’s most prestigious events. He qualified for the 1980 U.S. Open and the 1984 PGA Championship, competing alongside legendary golfers such as Jack Nicklaus and Lee Trevino.
In addition to his competitive achievements, Holt has remained deeply involved in golf course operations and instruction. He has owned and managed golf facilities and today serves as co-owner and head professional at Colonial Golf Course in Meridianville.
Through decades of teaching, competition and course management, Holt has devoted his life to growing the game of golf in North Alabama.
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