Bob Walls, at 103 years old, is an extraordinary figure in the golfing world. Last week, as he prepared to tee off at his home course in Omaha, Nebraska, his partners, James King and Dawn Dozier, playfully reminded him of the rules. Despite their insistence, Walls confidently stepped up to the forward white tees and delivered a smooth swing, landing the ball just short of the green on the 180-yard hole.
A recent report by the National Golf Foundation highlighted that 6.3 million Americans aged 65 and older played golf in 2025. Although there’s no specific data on centenarians, Walls certainly stands out with his impressive skills and dedication to the game.
Walls attributes his longevity to good genes and an active lifestyle. Both of his parents lived into their late 90s, and despite experiencing a heart attack, multiple surgeries, and a mini-stroke, he remains remarkably spry. ‘I don’t feel 103. I don’t act 103,’ he insists.
Born in St. Marys, Kansas, in 1923, Walls settled in Omaha in 1947 after serving in World War II. He ran a janitorial service before retiring at 74. Encouraged by friends, he took up golf, learning from Nebraska’s first Black PGA professional, Steve Hogan, at what is now the Steve Hogan Golf Course.
Walls honors his late friend by volunteering at the course, where he maintains the grounds, assists with divots and ball marks, and collects stray balls. His golf bag is ever-ready on his cart, allowing for spontaneous play or practice.
He is passionate about teaching the sport. He crafts training tools for young players and provides adults with lessons, charging $50 per hour. The annual Bob Walls Invitational supports local kids through fundraising for equipment.
Walls’ dedication extends beyond the course. He frequently reviews golf training videos on his iPad. Dozier recalls Walls actively reevaluating and adjusting his game even at 101, emphasizing his drive to improve.
Walls consistently shoots in the low 30s on the par-3 Hogan course. Recently, he bested course manager Mike Rice with a score of 31. Rice remembered beating Walls only once, needing a hole-in-one to do it.
Spending fall and winter in Phoenix, Walls practices daily there as well. ‘Golf is the first thing I think about when I wake up in the morning,’ he says. His focus remains on refining his technique, working on his stance, swing plane, and the use of his lob wedge.
King admires Walls’ game, noting, ‘He’s going to hit right down the middle and the next shot is going to be on the green. Sweet and easy. That’s what I love about his game.’