He’s had a very successful career in radio, has had a former Open winner play at his club, and explains why the golf industry is poised to embrace a future where tradition meets technology. This week, we sat down with former FM breakfast radio host, and Golf Manager of The Kinloch Club, Mike West.
What’s your job, which club do you work at, and how long have you been there?
I’m the Golf Manager at The Kinloch Club, Lake Taupo – a job I’ve had for the last 18 months.
What inspired you to pursue a career in Golf Management, and what’s a typical day like?
It’s always been on my bucket list that when I finished my radio career, I’d get a job at a top golf course. My days here are always different. I mix and mingle with our golfers and lodge guests to help create an awesome experience for them.
What are the biggest challenges you face in managing a golf club?
It’s a little quiet here over the winter months, although golf numbers have picked up a lot.
What trends or changes do you see shaping the future of the golf industry, specifically when it comes to turf and maintenance?
The golf industry is poised to embrace a future where tradition meets technology, and we are seeing the introduction of more and more robot lawnmowers.
Modern turf grasses are being engineered for greater resilience, lower water requirements, and resistance to disease.
As these trends continue to evolve, the golf industry is poised to embrace a future where tradition meets technology, ensuring sustainability, innovation, and enjoyment for players and course managers alike.
Who’s the most interesting visitor you’ve had at Kinloch Golf?
We were lucky enough to get a visit by Ian Baker-Finch last month. The former Open winner was in the country for the NZ Golf Open, where he did a little commentary.
This is what he had to say about Kinloch…
“The Kinloch club is a challenging links-style layout with dramatic, natural contours, and stunning views.
The course can be tough, especially when the wind blows off the lake, but it’s truly an unforgettable experience. The Kinloch course conditions were 10/10, absolutely superb tees, fairways and greens with the thick blonde fescue swirling in the wind. A bucket list opportunity for all golfers. We will certainly be back for another visit,” Ian Baker-Finch
If you weren’t working in golf, what would you be doing?
Working in a zoo. I love animals!
If you could play a round of golf with three people, dead or alive, who would they be and why?
Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods and Bill Murray.
What’s your handicap?
15
Ever had a hole in one?
Yes. On the 11th at The Manawatu Golf Club.
