Upticks: Sports and Money with Chase Hanna
By Luke Sullivan on November 28, 2025
Have you ever wondered how the business side of pro golf works? Explore honest financial realities, career transitions, and personal insights from a touring professional, Chase Hanna. Learn ways planning, discipline, and a strong support network help shape success on and off the course.
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Read an overview of the conversation below
The Journey from Amateur to Professional Golf
Chase Hanna’s transition from amateur golf in Kansas City to the professional ranks is a story of determination and adaptability. After excelling at Shawnee Mission East and the University of Kansas, Chase began his pro career on the PGA-sanctioned Latin America Tour, which he describes as “the equivalent to a AA Tour.” This experience allowed him to learn the ropes of professional golf without the added challenge of frequent time zone changes. “It was a bunch of young guys down in Latin America playing. I had a solid first year,” Chase recalls, noting that his early success enabled him to skip a stage of PGA Q School and progress to higher-level tours.
The leap to Europe was less a strategic move and more a result of performance. “I played both Q schools, both in the States and over in Europe and then just happened to play better in Europe. So that’s how I ended up in Europe. It certainly wasn’t any strategic effort to go across the pond. It just kind of happened,” Chase explains. This adaptability is a hallmark of many successful athletes, who must seize opportunities wherever they arise.
Chase’s mindset has evolved as his career has progressed. While the stakes are higher, he strives to maintain the joy that first drew him to the game. “I try to actually regress in terms of what I used to, how I used to view the game as opposed to changing anything now that, you know, it’s what I do for a quote living,” he says. For Chase, staying connected to his passion is key to performing at his highest level.
The Business Side of Professional Golf
Professional golf is as much a business as it is a sport, and Chase offers a candid look at its financial realities. Unlike athletes in team sports with guaranteed contracts, most golfers must secure their own funding. “Unless you’re a can’t miss big time guy, most of us, unless you come from family money or something, kind of have to sell some equity in themselves like a racehorse per se,” Chase shares. Early in his career, he was fortunate to have a group of supporters who provided financial backing, giving him the freedom to pursue golf full-time.
The typical funding model involves raising a set amount for the year, which can be substantial. “You probably need about $200,000, roughly a year. That gives you the ability to play all the Q schools you need to play,” Chase explains. Investors may receive a share of winnings, but Chase says jokingly: “If you’re doing this for an investment, then you should go see Jake.” The arrangement is more about supporting a local athlete than seeking financial returns.
Sponsorships also play a role, with companies paying for logo placement or equipment use. However, Chase emphasizes the importance of planning and discipline, especially during lean years. “It keeps you accountable as the player, gives you a little bit of motivation to do well for the people who have backed you,” he says. The support network allows him to weather the ups and downs of a demanding career.
Financial Pressure and Performance
Financial pressure is a constant companion for many professional golfers, and its impact on performance is nuanced. Chase admits, “I always play much, much better and I have much more fun when we’re playing for something.” For him, the competitive fire is fueled by stakes, whether in tournaments or friendly money games. “If anything, I like the idea of playing for money when it has consequence,” he says.
The European tour culture differs somewhat, with less emphasis on cash games during practice rounds. “Usually, you know, if you’re playing the long game, you’d rather spend the time and the energy learning the golf course and maybe doing some technical work,” Chase notes. Still, occasional matches for modest sums help maintain a competitive edge.
Chase’s experience highlights the importance of mental resilience. “I seem to play my best when I’m in a good headspace,” he shares. The ability to manage financial stress and stay focused on the game is crucial, especially for those living “tournament to tournament.” Planning and support can help make the difference between thriving and burning out.
Lessons Learned and Advice for Young Athletes
Chase is generous with advice for younger players, emphasizing the need for financial planning and self-investment. “Usually if they’re out there, they usually know what they’re doing. If they ask, yeah, I’ll certainly help them out,” he says. He observes that many newcomers model their approach on older players, but there’s no single correct path. “There’s a lot of variety and that’s certainly in the macro, the sense of golf. There’s a lot of different ways to swing the club and there’s certainly a lot of ways, different ways to do it from a financial side,” Chase reflects.
He cautions against starting a season without a financial plan, noting that “it puts a lot of stress on them as a player, but it also puts a lot of unknown on actually what they’re going to do throughout the year.” Investing in oneself—whether through coaching, equipment, or living arrangements—is essential for long-term success.
Chase’s own journey has been shaped by mentors and peers, from his grandfather who introduced him to golf, to Kansas City legends like Tom Watson. “I’m not sure there’s one guy who I necessarily model myself after, but I think all those guys together… I look at the state of Kansas City golf and the area golf compared to when I was growing in my game and it just seems like there’s more and more and more division one talent and even guys playing at a professional level than there was say 20, 30 years ago,” he observes.
Planning for the Future, Retirement and Beyond
As Chase looks ahead, family and meaningful experiences are at the forefront of his retirement vision. “My wife and I would like to start a family here soon. And I would say just, you know, family is great. Retiring right, being able to spend time with them,” he shares. For Chase, success isn’t about accumulating wealth, but about using resources to support causes and people that matter most. “It’s not going to the grave with a lot of money. That’s something I don’t really believe in,” he says.
He values experiences—concerts, sporting events, and time with loved ones—over material possessions. “I liked going to country music concerts. Sporting events are great. I’m going to take my dad to the KU MU game upcoming,” Chase recounts. These moments, he believes, are what make life rich.
Chase’s story is a testament to the importance of planning, adaptability, and staying true to one’s values. Whether navigating the business of golf or planning for retirement, his insights offer valuable lessons for athletes and investors alike.
Thank you for tuning in, we hope you have a great week!
