Aaron Rai on Winning the PGA Championship + Julie Elion on the Mental Game | 5 Clubs
Gary Williams opens this edition of 5 Clubs by reflecting on Colonial Country Club’s historic place on the PGA TOUR as the tournament celebrates its 80th consecutive year at the same venue. Gary discusses the importance of tradition, the value of iconic venues on the PGA TOUR schedule, and why players — not markets — ultimately drive the success of events. He also previews the NCAA Women’s Golf Championship match play portion, highlights Texas star Farah O’Keefe winning the individual title, and shares thoughts on the future of college golf and player development. Julie Elion, performance and mental coach, joins Gary to discuss her new book “Mastering Your Mental Game” and the deeper psychological side of performance. Elion shares insights on vulnerability, self-awareness, pressure, anxiety, and how elite athletes navigate difficult moments both on and off the golf course. She also explains how players can reset after adversity, overcome fear-based thinking, and improve performance through honesty and self-examination. The conversation goes far beyond golf and touches on lessons that apply to everyday life, work, and competition. Aaron Rai, 2026 PGA Championship winner, joins Gary to reflect on the life-changing experience of winning his first major championship. Rai discusses the preparation and mindset that helped him close out the victory, including his elite attention to detail, decision-making under pressure, and the confidence gained from years of disciplined work. He also breaks down key moments from the final round, including crucial shots down the stretch, his strategic approach to the golf course, and the support system around him, including his wife and family. Rai’s thoughtful perspective offers a fascinating look inside the mindset of a major champion.
