DETROIT – The Rocket Mortgage Classic’s first round honors Nick Gilbert, son of Dan Gilbert and Jennifer Gilbert.
The first day of the PGA Tour at Detroit Golf Club will be “Bow Tie Day”. This is to raise money to support NF Forward. NF Forward is a foundation that raises money to fund research for a cure to neurofibromatosis. It also honors Nick’s life, who passed away in May from complications caused by NF 1.
“Nick brought light and joy to every room and person he entered. Jennifer and I appreciate that Nick can continue to impact the world with initiatives such as Bow Tie Day, at the Rocket Mortgage Classic,” Dan Gilbert said in a press release. Gilbert is Nick’s dad and founder of Rocket Mortgage and Rocket Companies, and owner of Cleveland Cavaliers. “We hope everyone who walks the grounds of the Detroit Golf Club, or watches the Rocket Mortgage Classic from home, will be inspired by Nick and become involved in the fight to end NF.”
Nick represented the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2011 NBA Draft Lottery, where his bow tie brought luck to the team. They were the first selection. The Cavaliers honored Nick on March 15, 2022-23 with a “Cavs bow tie night.”
Fans attending the Rocket Mortgage Classic 2023 can support the cause by buying special bow tie cookies from concession stands along the course. All proceeds will be matched by Gilbert Family and donated to NF Forward. First 10,000 fans on Thursday will receive a bow tie pin.
Golfers are also helping to support the cause. The Rocket Mortgage Classic bowtie image will be printed on each caddie’s bib, and Nick Gilbert will appear on the back instead of individual golfers. The players will sign the bibs, which will be used to raise funds by NF Forward.
In a press release, Jason Langwell, executive director of the Rocket Mortgage Classic, said: “The Rocket Mortgage Classic is proud to honor Nick Gilbert’s life, who has inspired us all with his courage, strength, and unwavering optimism.” Bow Tie Day will be held at the Rocket Mortgage Classic to celebrate Nick Gilbert’s life and raise funds and awareness for a cure. “We are grateful to the PGA Tour and our friends for supporting this important cause.”
