Every day is different, my job duties fluctuate daily, weekly, and monthly. There really is no typical day, which makes it a really fun career.
What’s the most fun part of your job?
I meet so many interesting people throughout the year, both within the local community and within the golf circles. I also get to golf a lot, which is nice!
What’s the most challenging part of your job?
As much as I try to be proactive on many aspects of the event, a lot of what I handle is reactive for the 6 weeks or so leading up to the tournament. Currently, the biggest challenges are similar to what many other businesses and industries are going through right now–inflation, increased cost of goods and services, labor shortages, etc.
Tell us something about the Korn Ferry Tour that may surprise the average golf fan.
Korn Ferry Tour graduates have accounted for 25 Major wins and almost 600 total wins on the PGA TOUR. If you come out to a Korn Ferry Tour event, you will witness several future superstars and Hall of Famers.
How long has the LECOM event been held in Bradenton?
The first event was held in 2019
What does it mean for the community to have such a great event every year?
We’ve raised over $600,000 for non-profits since 2019. We’re able to offer a high-end event at a really inexpensive price point for everyone in the community. The event also brings in millions of dollars each year to the local business community (restaurants, hotels, vendors, etc.)
What other fun things are available for an attendee besides golf?
I hear there are some great hospitality sections. We have a great fan zone with over 25 different vendors set up, including food trucks, beer, and an awesome Tito’s bar. We also have family-friendly areas complete with games and activities. For the person looking for high-end hospitality, we have an all-inclusive VIP Champions Club tent on the 18th Green.
Do you play golf?
Yes, and for as much as I play, I should be way better.
Any favorite courses?
I’m biased toward Lakewood National obviously, but my 2nd favorite course in the area is Sara Bay Country Club. Outside of Florida, I love golfing in northern Michigan during the summer.
How long have you lived in the area?
I was born and raised in Punta Gorda and have lived all over Florida. I’ve been in the Sarasota/Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch area since 2010.
What do you love most about living in the Bay Area?
The abundance of things to do year-round and the friendly, low-key lifestyle the west coast of FL has to offer.
Lastly, brave enough to make any predictions this week?
Not really a brave prediction, but Taylor Montgomery finished 3rd in 2020 and 2nd in 2021. It only makes sense that he takes that final step and wins the event in 2022.
