From our Superintendent, Dave Roath below –
At Sandpines Golf Links, a Rees Jones-designed links course on the beautiful Oregon Coast, every day is an opportunity to ensure that our golfers experience the best conditions possible. As the course superintendent, my role is crucial in maintaining the golf course’s beauty and playability. From sunrise to sunset, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at a typical day managing this stunning coastal golf course.
4:30 AM – Wake Up to a New Day at Sandpines Golf Links
The early morning hours on the Oregon Coast are serene, and I rise at 4:30 AM to start my day. There’s something magical about the quiet before the golfers arrive, especially at a premier golf course like Sandpines. While most are still sleeping, I’m already getting ready for the day ahead.
5:45 AM – Arrive at the Agronomy Center
By 5:45 AM, I arrive at the Agronomy Center at Sandpines Golf Links, a hub for course operations and maintenance. I take a moment to check the weather forecast and review any updates on G1 (our golf course management software). Keeping track of weather conditions is essential, especially when managing a coastal course that can experience rapid changes in conditions. This helps me plan for irrigation, mowing schedules, and any necessary adjustments for the day.
6:00 AM – Crew Start Time and Morning Meeting
At 6:00 AM, I gather the crew for our morning meeting. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional course conditions, and it’s essential that everyone is aligned on the day’s goals. We discuss the tasks ahead, review the schedule for course prep, and go over any specific issues from the previous day’s play. We go through our goals – both for the day & long term.
6:15 AM – Crew Begins Course Prep, I Check Emails and Review Schedules
By 6:15 AM, the crew begins preparing the course for daily play. This includes mowing greens, setting tee boxes, and raking bunkers, among other essential tasks. Meanwhile, I check my emails, monitor the weather, and review G1 for any special notes regarding the day’s tee times or maintenance requirements. I also review timesheets to ensure everything is on track for our team’s performance.
7:00 AM – Start My Course Prep and Evaluate Crew Work
At 7:00 AM, I dive into my part of the course prep. This includes checking in with the golf shop to discuss any upcoming events or tee time changes. I evaluate the quality of the crew’s work and communicate any adjustments needed. It’s important to monitor progress throughout the day to ensure that Sandpines Golf Links continues to shine as one of the top golf courses on the Oregon Coast. I also review the irrigation results from the previous night to ensure that the course has received adequate water.
10:00 AM – Lunch Break
By 10:00 AM, it’s time for a well-deserved break. I use this time to recharge and reflect on the morning’s work. Managing a golf course, especially a Rees Jones-designed links course, requires constant attention to detail. During lunch, I also keep an eye on my phone for any urgent emails or updates regarding course conditions.
10:30 AM – Assign Work for the Second Half of the Day
After lunch, I begin assigning work opportunities for the second half of the day. This involves reviewing any unfinished tasks from the morning and identifying what’s needed to keep the course in perfect condition. Whether it’s additional turf care, setting up for a tournament, or preparing for evening irrigation, planning ahead is key.
10:45 AM – Crew Starts Second Shift Work
By 10:45 AM, the crew is back at it. They begin their second half of the day’s work, whether it’s fine-tuning the greens or handling additional landscape maintenance. I use this time to check in with the golf shop, monitor the course’s irrigation system, and ensure that the day’s plan is progressing smoothly. This step is essential, as the needs of a coastal golf course can shift rapidly due to the unique climate of the Oregon Coast.
11:30 AM – Course Tour and Irrigation Evaluation
Around 11:30 AM, I take a moment for a full course tour and evaluate the results of the morning’s irrigation. I look for any areas that may need further attention and assess the progress of our crew. At Sandpines, attention to detail is crucial – every blade of grass must be in perfect condition to uphold the standards of this world-class golf course.
2:00 PM – Adjustments and Final Check-ins
By 2:00 PM, I reassess the work plan for the day and make any necessary changes based on the progress of the crew and any unforeseen challenges. I also check my email and review the weather and timesheets once more. Communication with the crew is constant, and as they come in to wash and put away equipment, I make sure they know how much I appreciate their hard work.
2:30 PM – Crew End Time and Irrigation Setup
At 2:30 PM, the crew wraps up their day, and I thank them for their efforts. As superintendent, it’s important to recognize their hard work and dedication to maintaining the high standards of Sandpines Golf Links. Once the team is done, I set up the irrigation system for the night to ensure that the course is adequately hydrated for the following day.
3:00 PM – Lock Up and Head Home
By 3:00 PM, it’s time to lock up the Agronomy Center and head home. As a superintendent, the work never truly ends, but I take pride in knowing that I’ve done my part to ensure that Sandpines Golf Links is ready for another day of golfing excellence on the Oregon Coast.
9:00 PM – Bedtime
After a busy day maintaining one of the best golf courses on the Oregon Coast, I head to bed by 9:00 PM, ready to do it all over again the next day.
A day in the life of a superintendent at Sandpines Golf Links is filled with careful planning, hard work, and a deep passion for golf course maintenance. From the stunning views of the Oregon Coast to the challenging layout of this Rees Jones-designed links course, every aspect of the day is centered around creating the best possible experience for golfers. Whether it’s fine-tuning the greens or ensuring the irrigation system is optimal, every decision I make plays a role in delivering an unforgettable golf experience.
If you’re planning to visit the Oregon Coast, be sure to stop by Sandpines Golf Links and enjoy a round on one of the most beautiful and meticulously maintained golf courses in the region. Play a round on the Oregon dunes!