In 2004, David Lutz was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, which made the harsh, long winters of Danbury, Connecticut, increasingly difficult on his health.
Shortly after his diagnosis, David and his wife Dana, along with David’s parents, were presented an opportunity to purchase a golf cart business from a family member in Englewood, Florida.
The idea of buying an already established business and improving David’s year-round health with more favorable weather made the offer more appealing.
“We only have one life,” Dana said. “So, let’s try it.”
After making one visit to Florida, the purchase was decided.
This leap of faith — moving to a place they’ve never been — allowed David better mobility and management of his diagnosis, while also offering them a chance to meet new people and eventually raise children.
Today, Thoroughbred Golf Carts is a trusted local business specializing in golf cart sales and rentals, custom rebuilds, repairs, low-speed vehicles and storage solutions. Over the last 27 years, the company has built a reputation for quality craftsmanship, dependable service and strong community relationships.
With David and Dana at the helm of the business for the last 22 years, they couldn’t have pictured how much this decision would shape the rest of their lives.
BELONGING
About four years into establishing Englewood as home, David suffered a massive stroke in 2008. With Dana pregnant with their second child, their future became uncertain, she said.
Once word spread that David was in the hospital, the community rallied behind them. The shop flooded with phone calls, a fundraiser was organized and his recovery was celebrated in full force.
The experience made a lasting impression.
“It confirmed this is where we need to be,” Dana said.
This heartfelt line of direct support from the community encouraged the family to continue giving back wherever possible.
Outside the business, both David and Dana dedicate time to serving the community through Rotary, volunteering with schools, donating golf cart transportation for community events and charities, and assisting with post-hurricane recovery efforts. They are both also on the Englewood Beach Waterfest Board.
“It’s just what we do here,” David said of the community’s willingness to help one another.
Now, the Lutz daughters, Meghan and Madison, have grown up, with one of them now attending college. The girls have grown up as locals, active in the community and finding success in their educational paths.
Looking back, David and Dana found a forever home built on a foundation of resilience, family and community.
“I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else,” Dana said. “We are so grateful.”
