All-SEC golfer dies after battle with cancer

Cullan Brown, a golfer at the University of Kentucky, died on Tuesday, less than a year after being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.

Brown was an All-SEC performer in his freshman season in Lexington, posting a 72.42 scoring average in eight events. He was given a sponsor's exemption and made the cut at the PGA Tour's Barbasol Championship in 2019 (played in Nicholasville, Ky., just 30 minutes from campus), finishing T-53. Prior to his college career, Brown won Kentucky’s individual high school championship in 2016.

However, Brown had to step away from the program prior to his sophomore season last September. He was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer. This cancer was found in a tumor in his left femur and required immediate sessions of chemotherapy.

“So sad to hear of the passing of Cullan Brown, I was fortunate to chat with him [at] the Barbasol Champ in 2018, and what a great kid,” wrote PGA Tour player Josh Teater. “Thoughts and prayers to the Brown family! Gonna go try to make some Birds for you buddy!”

Last year a GoFundMe page was established by Wildcat teammate Jay Kirchdorfer to assist Brown and his family with medical expenses.

“The Browns’ are facing an emotionally challenging road ahead,” wrote Kirchdorfer. “As many of you can understand from personal experience, medical expenses can compound over a period of time. Providing this support would lighten the financial burden of this situation, which would be a blessing for the Brown’s. Also, we would really encourage you to share this page to help in the effort to support Cullan and the Brown’s during this journey."

A donation to the "Birdies For Brownie" drive can be made here.