Dayton Price Triumphs in Golf After Surviving Tragic Crash

A remarkable story of resilience has emerged from Ontario as 23-year-old Dayton Price of the Laurier Golden Hawks golf team has made an inspiring comeback to the sport following a devastating accident. In March 2022, Price was involved in a tragic collision on a Texas highway that claimed the lives of nine individuals, including six of his fellow student-athletes and their coach, Tyler James.

The incident occurred when a Ford passenger van, carrying the University of the Southwest men’s and women’s golf teams, collided with a pickup truck driven by a man under the influence of drugs. Price and teammate Hayden Underhill were the only survivors. Price sustained severe injuries, including burns covering half his body, a broken hand, and fractured facial bones. His recovery journey has been marked by determination, undergoing a total of 27 surgeries, with two more scheduled for the near future.

From Pain to Victory

Reflecting on his traumatic experience, Price has a tattoo on his forearm that reads, “I do not fear tomorrow. Today has been enough. Until we meet again.” This phrase, inspired by a song from Zach Bryan, encapsulates his journey and the promise he made to himself and his lost friends. After spending three months in the hospital and enduring relentless pain, Price was eager to return to golf.

In June 2022, just days after returning home to Ontario, Price attended the RBC Canadian Open as a VIP guest. This event reignited his passion for the sport, and shortly thereafter, he took to the course again. Encouraged by his friend Andreas Diogenous, Price played two holes at Whistle Bear Golf Club and made a birdie, a moment he describes as pivotal in his return to golf.

Fast forward to 2023, and Price has achieved significant success, including being crowned the Ontario University Athletics individual golf champion after a stellar performance at the Oshawa Golf & Country Club. Over two days, he shot rounds of 70 and 68 at the par-72 course, securing both the individual title and leading the Golden Hawks to their first team championship since 2019.

A Promising Future Ahead

Laurier head coach Jeff Colley praised Price’s determination and hard work, saying, “Dayton’s individual championship win highlights his incredible perseverance and the relentless effort he’s put into his game.” Price’s journey has also captured attention beyond Ontario, as he discussed his experiences on PGA Tour Radio’s SiriusXM this past week.

His competitive comeback began in earnest last year when he participated in several tournaments while still managing pain and rebuilding his confidence. Each victory, including the men’s championship at the Mississaugua Golf & Country Club, has bolstered his mental health and solidified his support network of friends and family.

Looking ahead, Price is set to compete in a PGA Tour Americas tournament in Ecuador next April, thanks to teammate Liam Schweitzer, who helped secure an exemption for him. This opportunity follows Price’s impressive round of 8-under par 63 at the Ambassador Golf Club, which earned him the title at the Windsor Invitational.

Price remains grounded, often reflecting on his journey and the memories of his lost teammates. He has honored them by participating in tournaments held in their hometowns and spending time with their families. “They said, ‘What’s the use of none of you surviving? We can live through you.’ That meant everything,” Price noted.

Mentally and physically, Price feels stronger than ever. With his focus on completing his first year of communication studies and continuing his golf career, he maintains his aspirations of playing on the PGA Tour. “The dream’s still to play on the PGA Tour,” he affirmed.

Those who have witnessed his journey understand the significance of his comeback. Price exudes a sense of determination, stating, “It’s tough to stop somebody who’s got seven people behind him,” referring to the support of his lost teammates. As he continues to navigate his path in golf, Price’s story remains a powerful testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of friendship.