Friendships formed made the miles memorable

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D.J. Gregory traveled through 23 states and over 80,000 miles during his quest to walk every round of every tournament.

Throughout this year, D.J. Gregory walked every round each week on the PGA TOUR, a journey that resulted in nearly 1,000 miles and 1.5 million steps ... and a journey made more difficult by the fact that D.J. has cerebral palsy. Each week, he followed a player and wrote about his experience in a blog for PGATOUR.COM. When we asked D.J. what he'd remember most from the 44-week journey, he wrote the following essay.

In 2008, I had the unique opportunity to live out my dream and accomplish a personal challenge by attending every PGA TOUR event and walking every competitive round. I attended 44 events, walked 988 miles and 3,256 holes, gaining many more lifelong friends along the way. That's what I will take away most from my journey -- the friendships I made and the people I met.

At the beginning, I honestly never thought that I might inspire people by completing this personal test. However, I quickly realized that I had been given an opportunity. I embraced it completely and I now believe if I can inspire even just one person; that is pretty cool.

I had the chance to walk with a different player each week and I truly appreciate how eager each one was to participate. From the first week of the year with Boo Weekley, to the final event with Jason Gore every player told me that if there was anything I need, just let them know and it's done.

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In addition to getting to know the players, I had the opportunity to travel to some of the most historic golf courses in the world. From the Plantation Course at Kapalua on Maui, which was the most difficult to walk but had some of the greatest views, to Pebble Beach Golf Links during a week in which we had the best weather there in years, I was extremely fortunate. I also had the opportunity to travel across the pond for the first time and attend the British Open at Royal Birkdale.

I truly believe each event is special and I enjoyed each week to the fullest. However there are two events that really stick out.

First, while attending the Stanford St. Jude Championship, I had the opportunity to visit and take a tour of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Second, while at the AT&T National over the 4th of July weekend, I had the opportunity to visit the Walter Reed Medical Center and interact with members of our Armed Forces who are recovering. During my visit to Walter Reed, I was reminded that true inspiration is all around us in these brave men and women who sacrifice their lives to protect our freedoms.

Thank you so much to the fans, players and staff for your continued support and encouragement. Always remember: If you have a dream, go after it and work toward your goal. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't accomplish something. I traveled over 80,000 miles, visited 23 states, two countries and attended 44 TOUR events. And I had the time of my life.

D.J. Gregory, who blogged about his journey all year for PGATOUR.com, is happy to give his tired feet a well-deserved rest.