Q&A with David Mcbride, course manager at Vale of Leven Golf Club

By Alistair May 24, 2021 10:02

David talks about the products that make course maintenance at the venue easier for him.

Please can you give a brief description of your background, your path to being a course manager, how did you learn, where did you study and how long have you now been at Ashford Golf Club?

Background farmer. Commenced greenkeeping as volunteer on Balmore Golf Club. Progressed to apprenticeship with the club for three years, attending Langside College Glasgow and obtained City and Guilds certificate. Continued to be employed by Balmore GC for 12 years, various positions, progressing to assistant manager. During above period attended Bingley Research Institute England, obtained certificates and additional knowledge in subjects like agronomy. Transition to Vale of Leven Golf Club in 1991 up taking position of course manager, thus to date 30 years at the club.

On top of running the Vale of Leven you run a consultancy, what exciting projects have you been involved with and who are you currently working with?

Consultancy projects are numerous ranging from consultant to BP Grangemouth and Pumpherston Golf Course, also landlines across Scotland. Projects I was involved with and won numerous awards for innovation and environmental enhancements. Consultant to several bowling greens / clubs and golf courses such as Bearsden and Dalmuir.

What are the things that you enjoy most about your job, what are you most proud of and how does this make feel?

Working outdoors, full redesign and construction of new greens and all areas on the golf course. Enjoy a challenge of new projects, learning and demonstrating skills and knowledge acquired over the years. Enjoy training and development of new / existing staff. Working on projects with other professionals such as architects and agronomists. Working in partnership with other agencies like SEPA.

You purchased a Lastec 721XR last year, how does this piece of kit contribute to the course maintenance, what were the reasons you opted for this product, how often do you use it as part of your programme, what results have you seen and what has impressed you most?

Used the Lastec 721XR since the late 1990s and recommended to other golf courses, had consistent and good results, longevity is excellent and easy to maintain. Good quality of cut.

With your many years in this profession, what has been the passion that drives you, what gives you the most satisfaction and why?

Satisfaction of obtaining praise and appreciation from club members and visitors who enjoy playing on the course, who feedback positively about play and aesthetics. I aspire to ensuring every aspect of the course is of excellent standards and we are continually progressing with CPD and strategies to make improvements.