Ernie Els and an Unforgettable Act of Kindness
Sometimes, the smallest gestures from well-known figures leave the biggest marks. Just ask radio host Darren Scott and his son Mark, who will never forget a certain golf legend’s kindness—Ernie Els. This story isn’t about scorecards or trophies. It’s about something way more valuable: human decency and compassion.
Over 10 years ago, Scott’s son Mark was facing his toughest opponent—childhood cancer. Fundraising to help cover the endless bills, the Scott family organized a charity golf day at the Copperleaf Golf Course in Centurion. That’s where Ernie Els, already a global icon, showed up not as The Big Easy, but as just Ernie. He met Mark, held him gently, and took the time to talk, not caring one bit that Mark was too young and sick to recognize the golf legend in front of him. There were no scripted moments, no photo ops. Els just wanted to help a struggling family make it through another day.
Full Circle at the Senior PGA Championship
Fast forward to 2024, and Mark is older and healthy. This time, it’s not a charity event—it’s the Senior PGA Championship in Texas, halfway around the world. Mark, now a massive Ernie Els fan, was just hoping to say hello and maybe get a quick selfie. What happened was much more. Els instantly recognized Mark, and instead of a rushed greeting, he spent the entire back nine walking and chatting with the Scott family. Hole after hole, Els shared stories, asked questions about Mark’s life, and kept things light, as if he had all the time in the world.
Darren Scott says Els’ humility and warmth are what set him apart. Despite countless fans wanting his attention, Els made every person feel seen. It’s not something you see every day—especially from athletes as decorated as him. Els’ actions over the years have left a real imprint on the Scott family, blending generosity with sincerity in everything he does for others, both on and off the golf course.
This touching connection isn’t just a feel-good headline. It’s a reminder that, behind the fame and success, simple acts of kindness shape people’s lives in ways no championship ever could.
