Cathy Dowdy, who saved PGA star Brian Harman’s six-year-old son from a rip current, fights for her life after a heroic beach rescue.
Professional golfer Brian Harman has shared the heart-wrenching story of a family tragedy that unfolded during a seemingly ordinary day at the beach. While on holiday at the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club in Florida, Harman’s six-year-old son, Walter, was swept out to sea by a rip current on 13 October. What began as a day of laughter turned into a moment of sheer terror.
Walter, boogie boarding with a friend, found himself pulled far from the shore by a strong current. As panic set in, Cathy Dowdy, a close family friend whom Harman described as “practically family,” rushed into the water to save the boy. However, the rescue attempt took a devastating turn. While another beachgoer, Crane Cantrell, successfully reached Walter and brought him back to safety, Dowdy suffered severe injuries in the process.
A nearby lifeguard managed to pull Dowdy to shore and performed CPR as emergency responders arrived. She was rushed to the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, where she has remained in a coma for the past six weeks.
“Cathy put her life on the line to save my son,” Harman said, his voice breaking as he addressed the press ahead of the RSM Classic in Georgia. “How do you even begin to thank someone for such selfless bravery? She disregarded her own safety to make sure Walter was safe. That kind of courage is beyond words.”
The traumatic event has left the Harman family and Dowdy’s loved ones grappling with shock and worry. Harman, a three-time PGA champion and father of three, described the incident as a turning point in their lives. He also took the opportunity to thank Cantrell, whose quick actions played a crucial role in ensuring his son’s survival.
“Crane and Cathy are heroes in every sense of the word,” Harman emphasised. “They didn’t think twice. They just acted. That kind of selflessness is a rare and beautiful thing.”
The community has rallied around Dowdy’s family during this challenging time. A GoFundMe campaign launched to support her medical and recovery expenses has already surpassed its $20,000 goal, amassing over $80,000 from more than 480 donors. The funds will cover long-term lodging, food, and other expenses to help her family remain by her side during her recovery.
“Cathy is a beloved figure in our lives, and seeing the overwhelming support has been one of the few bright spots in this ordeal,” Harman said. “We’re holding onto hope and sending prayers every single day.”
Dowdy’s family has also expressed gratitude for the community’s generosity, urging continued prayers for her full recovery. Her case highlights the risks associated with rip currents, which often go unnoticed until it’s too late. Harman used his platform to raise awareness about water safety, urging beachgoers to remain vigilant and informed about ocean conditions.
For Harman, who shares his life with wife Kelly Van Skye and their three children—eight-year-old Cooper Marie, six-year-old Walter, and two-year-old Jack—this incident has brought a renewed appreciation for the fragility of life.
“Moments like these make you realise what truly matters,” he reflected. “Family, friends, and the people who step up when it counts. Cathy is family to us, and we’re with her every step of the way.”
As the Harmans navigate this emotional period, Brian Harman remains focused on competing in the RSM Classic, taking place at Sea Island Golf Club in Georgia. While golf remains a significant part of his life, his thoughts are undoubtedly with Dowdy and her family.
“I carry her spirit and bravery with me on the course,” he said. “And I hope her strength inspires everyone to look out for one another, whether it’s on the beach or in life.”
The RSM Classic concludes on 24 November, but the Harmans’ journey to support Dowdy’s recovery will continue indefinitely. For them, her bravery is a poignant reminder of the profound connections that bind people together, even in the face of unimaginable challenges.
