PGA Tour Veteran Keith Mitchell of Mizuno Golf – Worldwide Golf Insider Podcast Episode #420
In this episode of the Worldwide Golf Insider Podcast, host Tom Brassell sat down with PGA Tour veteran and 2019 Honda Classic winner Keith Mitchell, courtesy of Mizuno Golf. A proud University of Georgia alum, Mitchell shared stories from his golfing journey, his breakthrough on the PGA Tour, and his deep connection with Mizuno Golf.
Early Days in Golf
Mitchell’s love for golf began at a young age in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where his father’s membership at a local club introduced him to the game. Alongside his preschool friend Charlie, Mitchell spent carefree days on the range, hitting balls and playing in the sand. By third grade, he was competing in tournaments, setting the stage for a lifelong passion.
The Georgia Bulldog Legacy
Mitchell’s path to the University of Georgia was influenced by local golfing role models like Michael Morrison, Adam Mitchell, and Harris English, all of whom attended Georgia. The university’s competitive environment, where players had to qualify for every tournament, mirrored the grind of the PGA Tour. Mitchell credits this tough, self-reliant culture for producing so many successful tour players, including himself, Kevin Kisner, and others from the Georgia “stable of dogs.”
An Unconventional Road to the PGA Tour
Unlike many peers, Mitchell’s journey to the PGA Tour was far from straightforward. After a modest college career, he missed the cut at Q School and headed to Latin America for the PGA Tour Latinoamérica, playing in countries like Uruguay, Colombia, and Honduras. The diverse conditions—different grasses, climates, and limited facilities—taught him to adapt and focus on shooting low scores. This resilience paid off as he earned his Korn Ferry Tour card and eventually secured a PGA Tour spot in 2017.
The 2019 Honda Classic Victory
Mitchell’s defining moment came at the 2019 Honda Classic, where he clinched his first PGA Tour win. Tied with Brooks Koepka and Rickie Fowler on the final hole, a reachable par 5, Mitchell’s drive landed in a bunker, forcing a lay-up. Undeterred, he hit a precise wedge shot and sank a 15-foot putt to seal the victory under tough, windy conditions—a testament to his grit and skill.
The “Cashmere Keith” Nickname
Mitchell’s stylish reputation earned him the nickname “Cashmere Keith,” coined by Colt Knost’s former caddie and popularized by broadcaster Jim Nantz. While Mitchell humorously notes that nicknames often stem from less-than-flattering origins, he embraces the moniker as a nod to his sharp on-course style.
Partnership with Mizuno Golf
A long-time Mizuno player, Mitchell’s relationship with the brand began after another manufacturer stopped producing golf equipment. He switched to Mizuno irons, drawn to their craftsmanship and unique copper underlay. Over years of collaboration, Mitchell has worked closely with Mizuno to fine-tune his equipment, from custom-grind MP-221 irons to wedges with adjusted weighting and symmetrical designs. His current bag includes the ST-Z driver, which he praises for its personalized performance. Mitchell emphasized the importance of custom fitting, advising golfers to ensure they’re hitting the ball well before getting fitted to avoid compensating for a flawed swing.
Advice for Golfers
Mitchell’s key takeaway for golfers is the value of proper club fitting. He shared how his own five-year process with Mizuno resulted in equipment perfectly tailored to his game. For amateurs, he recommends getting fitted when striking the ball consistently to ensure the club, not the swing, is optimized for performance.
Final Thoughts
Mitchell expressed gratitude for the opportunities golf and Mizuno have provided, describing himself as an “equipment junkie” who loves perfecting his gear. His story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and a deep connection to the game. As he continues his eighth season on the PGA Tour, fans can look forward to seeing more from “Cashmere Keith.”
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