By Sue DeWerff

Growing the game of golf here on the Space Coast is something Duran’s Academy of Golf’s newest addition,
Justin Blazer is excited about.

Since his appointment as Director of Instruction at the Viera golf facility last April, he has been busy leading both adult and children’s golf clinics as well as offering private instruction — providing what he refers to as accessibility and affordability for the game to all ages and skill levels.

“I am passionate about this sport and it is truly rewarding for me to make an impact and observe the progress of those I teach,” said the 32-year-old Virginia native.

Justin, who earned his degree in recreation and leisure with a focus in recreational programming and coaching from Wesleyan College, spent the past six years as a certified PGA instructor at the acclaimed Faldo Golf Institute in Orlando, (Marriott Golf Academy.) While there, he was a two-time winner, (2012 and 2013) of the U.S. Kids Golf’s Top 50 Kids Instructors Award, one that recognizes golf professionals across North America whose focus is on developing younger golfers throughout their communities.

Many of the junior golfers he has worked with, both while in Orlando and now locally, have had tremendous success under his instruction. Melbourne’s 8-year-old, Asher Joseph recently won

the European Kids Championships in Scotland this May, a feat that he and his father, Angelo attributes to Blazers instruction.
“I am thrilled to have worked with Asher for the past several years,” said Justin, who caddied for Asher at the latter tournament. Along with his current instruction at Duran, Asher also actively plays in PGA sectional events.

One of just 14 Aim Point Certified Level II Instructors internationally, Justin’s specialized training enables him to teach his students the finer points of putting, including how to accurately read greens and predict point break. He has appeared in instructional videos on Golfweek.com and FoxSports.com, as well as other popular publications and blogs. “We are extremely fortunate to have Justin here at Duran,” said Dave Tomzcak, general manager. “I share his visions when it comes to introducing youth to the game of golf.”

Justin has been a professional caddie for senior pro, Sir Nick Faldo, and has worked with both LPGA and senior tour professionals as a short-game instructor, as well.

For more information about golf clinics at Duran or to inquire about private instruction with Justin Blazer, visit DuranGolf.com. Duran Golf Academy is located at 7032 Stadium Parkway, Viera.