Toronto Golf Club’s
very own General Manager and COO stops by on today’s blog to answer a few questions
about his take on why he choose the golf industry, favourite golf course,
favourite PGA players and more. I am
honoured that my Uncle John took the time to be interviewed. He has defiantly left his mark in the Golf
Industry and has had so many opportunities worldwide to grow the game of
golf. I am so proud of him and look up
to him immensely. My goal going forward is to somehow be included on his next
golf trip…see final answer of interview.
What made you choose to be in the
Golf Industry?
I was attracted to the golf industry initially due to my love
for the great outdoors and affection for the game of golf. I grew-up playing as a Junior at Whispering
Hills Golf Club in Hanover, Ontario but never thought I would carve-out a
career in the golf industry. I’ve been
very fortunate enough over the years to be afforded some incredible
opportunities to work in the industry both in the golf course maintenance and
club management areas. I choose to
remain in the industry as it’s very enjoyable to spend time with people who
really ‘want’ to be at their clubs. It’s
gratifying to be able to help people enjoy all the benefits that the game has
to offer. The industry itself has a
terrific community of individuals and families who enjoy their trade. Who wouldn’t want their office in this
environment?
What was your first job in the Golf
Industry?
Working on the greens staff at Saugeen Golf
Club in Port Elgin, Ontario during the summer of 1988. I worked 25 hours a day for my boss, Gary
Gravett.....and survived. Spent my fair
share of time on the end of a weed-eater then graduated onto cutting greens and
night-time watering of the course. I
couldn’t believe how much I enjoyed it and decided to embark on a career in the
industry.
What was your favourite class in
College / University?
Turfgrass
Management at the University of Guelph.
Dr. Jack Eggens really caught my attention as he pontificated endlessly
about the various types of turfgrasses on golf courses throughout North
America. He was a dynamic professor who
was passionate about the horticultural industry in Canada.
What was the best advice you were
given for your golf game?
Leave the
course in better condition than you found it.
It’s not the responsibility of the golf course maintenance staff to
repair your divots and rake the bunkers after you. It’s a game of honour and integrity and one
must respect the environment in which the game is played.
What is your top 3 favourite golf course
and why?
1. Royal
County Down, Newcastle, Northern Ireland – those who have been there know why
it’s considered by many to be the best golf course in the world. I couldn’t wait to get to the next tee – an
unforgettable links experience overlooking Dundrum Bay. If you go, you must stay at the Slieve Donard
Resort & Spa – very memorable.
2. Royal Portrush, County Antrim,
Northern Ireland – a true test of golf (two courses) in a spectacular setting
on the coast. Designed by Harry Colt –
say no more. 3. The Toronto Golf Club, a pure golf experience
like no other in North America. 3rd
oldest golf club in North America and recently renovated by Dr. Martin Hawtree
from the United Kingdom. In my view, one
of the best private golf clubs in the world.
What do you feel are the benefits of
playing a Par 3 Executive Golf Course?
Excellent
area to work on your short game, very fun to play and you don’t need the same
time commitment as 18 holes. It’s perfect for after work or for a couple of
hours on a weekend. Much more relaxed as
well...it’s a great place to bring the ‘non-golfing’ type for an introduction
to the game in a non-threatening environment.
Who is your favourite player on the
PGA?
Mike Weir.
Although he’s past his prime, the Master’s win was unforgettable for all
Canadians.
Where
do you see yourself in 5 years?
Playing more
golf!
Both your children play golf if you
could give them and any other children a golf related tip what would it be?
Relax and
have fun – it’s just a game and even the pros can’t get it right every
day. It’s a game for life. You will see some of the most beautiful
properties in the world if you enjoy the game of golf.
Where do you hope is your next golf
related trip?
Trump
International Golf Club, Aberdeen, Scotland.
Designed by Dr. Martin Hawtree.
They have two types of lenses available the
polycarbonate and melanin lenses. The polycarbonate
lenses provide strong protection from the harmful light. The Melanin is a “photo-protection” from
sunlight damage. They focus in on the
dangerous blue light that most competitors don’t take into consideration with
their only focus on Ultraviolet A and B lights.
Blue light exposure has been proven to be a key factor in Age Related
Macular Degeneration. 
