Thursday, May 24, 2007
Governor Culver Declares May 24, 2007 As "Zach Johnson Day"
(Des Moines) On Thursday, May 24, 2007, Governor Chet Culver, golfers from across the state, and hundreds of Iowans welcomed the 2007 Masters Champion, and Cedar Rapids native Zach Johnson back to Iowa. Governor Culver read a proclamation in the Capitol rotunda declaring today “Zach Johnson Day” in the State of Iowa. Johnson played collegiate golf at Drake University in Des Moines. On April 8, 2007, Johnson stunned the international golf community by beating the best golfers in the world to win the Masters at the Augusta National Golf Club.
“Zach Johnson has made Iowa proud. It was a thrill watching him win and humbly put on the famed green jacket,” said Governor Culver. “Zach is a true champion on and off the golf course. Zach showed the world what true Iowa resolve and toughness is all about by winning the 2007 Masters under challenging conditions.”
High school, college, amateur and professional golfers from across the state had breakfast and took pictures with Zach in the Capitol Rotunda. Then a ceremony was held where Governor Culver read a proclamation declaring May 24, 2007 as “Zach Johnson Day.”
“I am proud to honor such an inspiring person with strong faith. He is a role model who leads his life by example,” said Governor Culver.
Zach Johnson, accompanied by his wife Kim, and mother Julie, thanked Iowans for their support during this exciting time. “It feels so good to be back in Iowa. Kim and I are so grateful for your support and well-wishes. There are a lot of people who believed in me and it’s so exciting to share my Masters victory with all of you.” Johnson also urged students in the crowd to keep working hard. He said, “I wasn’t the best high school golfer on the team or even the best golfer at Drake, but with hard work and perseverance, I won the Masters. Don’t let anyone get in the way of your dreams.”
Zach is honored today with a private reception at Drake University followed by a press conference. He is scheduled to make appearances in Cedar Rapids later today.