OGA-OGCSA Superintendent Spotlight – January 2018
The OGA-OGCSA Superintendent Spotlight is a new monthly feature which highlights one of the many outstanding superintendents across Oregon and Southwest Washington. The course superintendent does the yeoman’s work – they’re tabbed with keeping our region’s green grass facilites in top notch shape. Make sure to follow this monthly special to learn a little bit more about these unsung heroes.
This month’s edition features Rory Allison, who is wrapping up his first year as superintendent at RiverRidge Golf Course in Eugene.
Describe your facility in 10 words or less:
A daily fee golf course that is fun to play.
What is a little-known fact / fun fact about your facility?
We are Audobon Certified.
What’s the biggest challenge your facility presents to you as superintendent?
Producing quality playing conditions without breaking the bank.
What led you down the path of becoming a superintendent?
I am an avid outdoorsman who likes organization, being a superintendent you get to incorporate both.
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve witnessed or done as a superintendent?
Watch an employee drive a cart into a lake.
Do you have a superintendent dog?
Yes, I have two that rotate turns coming to work. Maile and Pua (they are from Hawaii).
Ducks, Beavers or other?
I live in Eugene, I have to go with the Ducks.
Grapes, hops or milkshake?
Hops for the most part, Grapes on occasion.
Tiger or Phil?
Tiger, he put the Wow in golf for a long time.
Jack or Arnie?
I love vintage Arnie, he was classy.
Excluding your current facility, what is your favorite golf course?
Kukio, on the Big Island of Hawaii.
What is your best 18-hole score at your facility?
Withheld to protect the innocent.
What’s your favorite tool in your tool box?
I use my pocket knife for everything.
What’s your favorite major tournament?
U.S. Open
Let’s say there’s a three-day weekend coming up—what are you going to do?
I am getting outside in the wilderness. Activity dictated by what season we are in.
What would you invent right now to make your professional life easier?
Self driving golf carts that keep them in the right areas.
If your owner decided to plow up your course and make it a farm. What crops would you suggest?
I am a vegetable lover. Tomatoes and peppers.
Who is your idol in the golf world?
The guys who changes holes at the Masters every year. That takes some skills.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone wanting to become a superintendent?
Know that being a superintendent is more about employee management then it is about growing grass.
