Gave up golf after his sophomore year in high school after being a top junior player and did not pick it up again until almost 10 years later. Inspired by Payne Stewart's 1999 U.S. Open win at Pinehurst in his home state of North Carolina.

An outdoor enthusiast who snowboards and rock climbs. Also spent some time heliboarding in Alaska. Lived out of his van in Montana for five years.

Is a professional kayaker.