Notah Begay III, a four-time PGA Tour winner and prominent broadcasting analyst, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Payne Stewart Award.
Honoring a Legacy of Service
The Payne Stewart Award is presented annually to a professional golfer who mirrors the integrity and charitable spirit of the late World Golf Hall of Fame member, who died in a plane crash in 1999. Begay, who remains the only full-blooded Native American to compete on the PGA Tour, will receive the honor during a ceremony on August 25, 2026, at the Tour Championship in Atlanta.
“Payne Stewart represented the very best of our game, not only in how he competed, but in how he lived his life and gave back to others,” Begay said in a statement released by the PGA Tour. “To be associated with his legacy is truly special.”
Impact Through the NB3 Foundation
Begay’s recognition stems largely from his work with the Notah Begay III (NB3) Foundation, which he established in 2005. The organization focuses on the health and development of Native American youth, specifically through physical activity initiatives.
According to the foundation’s mission, its goal is to address the significant health disparities faced by Native American communities by providing access to golf and wellness initiatives. Begay has leveraged his career as a professional golfer and his current role as a Golf Channel analyst to expand these opportunities, aiming to uplift the next generation of Indigenous youth.
Recognition Criteria and History
The selection committee for the Payne Stewart Award evaluates candidates based on their contributions to the game of golf and their dedication to philanthropy. By choosing Begay, the committee highlighted his dual role as a high-level competitor and a community advocate.
- Recipient: Notah Begay III
- Award Year: 2026
- Ceremony Date: August 25, 2026
The award serves as a permanent reminder of Stewart’s 11 PGA Tour victories, including three major championships, and his reputation as a sportsman who prioritized his relationships with fans and his charitable involvements.
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