Joe LaCava and Joe LaCava Jr. will make history at the Arnold Palmer Invitational as the first father-son caddie duo to work in the same pairing. The elder LaCava, who previously caddied for Tiger Woods and now works with Patrick Cantlay, will be alongside his son Joe IV, who caddies for Joe Highsmith.

The senior LaCava is a veteran caddie from Newtown, Connecticut, known for his work with Fred Couples and a decade-long stint with Tiger Woods, including Woods' memorable 2019 Masters victory. He transitioned to Patrick Cantlay's bag in 2023.

Joe LaCava IV recently joined the professional ranks as Joe Highsmith's caddie in early 2025. Golf fans may recognize him as Charlie Woods' caddie during PNC Championship appearances. Before turning professional, the younger LaCava graduated from James Madison University with a marketing degree and gained experience in Winged Foot's caddie program.

The pair's paths converged after Highsmith's victory at the 2025 Cognizant Classic, where LaCava IV helped secure his player's first PGA Tour win. This victory earned them entry into Signature Events, including the Arnold Palmer Invitational.


The historic pairing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. ET on Thursday at Bay Hill, where father and son will share the course as professional caddies for the first time. Highsmith praised the younger LaCava's abilities, noting his skill as a caddie and his ability to maintain a light atmosphere on course.

This unique moment represents not just a personal milestone for the LaCava family, but also showcases how golf's traditions can pass from one generation to the next, with both father and son finding success in their chosen profession.

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