Casey Martin was born in Eugene, Oregon, on June 2, 1972. As a child, he developed Klippel-Trenauny-Weber Syndrome, a rare circulatory condition for which there is no known cure. Despite his medical condition, he developed into a star golfer, winning 17 Oregon Golf Association junior events between the ages of 10-14. He continued to excel in high school, being named first-team all-state for three years and winning the state championship as a senior. He was also valedictorian of his class. Martin went on to Stanford University where he played No. 3 on the team that won the 1994 NCAA championship. Future PGA stars Tiger Woods and Notah Begay were on the Stanford golf team. Martin turned pro in 1995, joining the Nike tour. However, the disease in his right leg grew steadily worse. He could no longer walk around a golf course without experiencing great pain. Martin asked the PGA for permission to use a golf cart during competition. The PGA refused his request and Martin took golf's ruling body to court. In February of 1998, a U.S. Magistrate found in Martin's favor. The PGA has appealed the ruling and the case is pending in the Ninth Circuit court. The court decision vaulted Martin into the national spotlight. His courage and determination in the face of daunting challenges has been an inspiration to scores of Americans from coast to coast. In March of 1998, Martin signed an endorsement sponsorship with Hartford Life. The sponsorship was renewed for three years in January, 2000. He exemplifies the spirit of Hartford Life that's embodied in the company's advertising theme, Bring It On." Martin carries the Hartford Life logo on his bag, makes personal appearances and serves as a corporate spokesperson. In May 2006, Martin was named head coach of the University of Oregon's men's golf team in his hometown of Eugene, after working as a volunteer assistant during the 2006 season."
