I had a chance to do exactly that earlier this week. As I drove around the golf course, I stopped and looked around with my version of fresh eyes. I wasn’t looking for projects that remain on the list or future tasks that need to be addressed. I took a look at the golf course as a golfer. I walked up on the greens and looked at future hole locations. I looked at approach shots that would have to navigate subtle mounds and ridges. I looked at landing areas and thought about the types of drives that one would have to play to minimize the risks. With that, I played my first mental round of golf at Cat Island Club; and it was immensely enjoyable.
So, I looked at the golf course through different lenses, I was overwhelmed at the sheer beauty of the property. The tide was up, and the egrets provided a spectacular backdrop. The same Spanish Moss that inspired Margaret Mitchell to transport us to the beautiful southern towns blew in the late summer breeze. For several minutes, my cell phone actually quit ringing and one of God’s greatest canvases was staring back at me.
Another champion golfer, Ben Crenshaw once said, in 1995, “There are many things in life that will catch your eye, but only a few will catch your heart…pursue those.” That’s when it hit me that the kid who grew up beating golf balls in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania grew up to find a magical place called Cat Island. Missy and I have lived all over the country over a career (and marriage) that has spanned over 40 years. I’ve had the privilege of working at some of the finest clubs in the country. We never “planned” our future but went along for the ride. When we eventually found Beaufort, South Carolina, we knew this is where we were meant to be. Then our path crossed with the partners of RDP and as they say, “the rest is history.” I’m able to follow both Walter’s advice and Ben’s wisdom and count my blessings…and there are many.
So, for those of you looking for this week’s update on progress, I say this… we continue to follow the passion in our heart and knock the dust off of this George Cobb classic. But as we uncover a great golf course, we more importantly showcased the natural beauty of this property that no man could have built. We also solidify bonds between our team, our members, our potential members, and the community.
We certainly enjoy hosting events like our Bourbon and Bacon event last night. We solidified our bonds with over 75 friends and neighbors well into the night. The music was great, the night was spectacular and of course, when you mix Bourbon and Bacon, good things happen! Our next event is scheduled for Saturday the 22nd and this one is for the entire family. It’s our soon to be iconic, “Drool at the Pool.” I know what you’re thinking, “I thought that was the Bourbon and Bacon, because we saw some drooling last night.” No, the first annual Drool at the Pool is reminiscent of the famous “Caddy Day” at the pool in the classic Caddyshack movie. Except, we’re inviting our most loyal and loving companions to spend a few hours enjoying the amenities of the membership. Bring your pups, one and all, to the pool next Saturday. We’ll have special treats for them, snacks for the kids and drink specials for those of you who wish to enjoy adult treats. All dogs are welcome, provided they play well with others. If they are anything like their owners, it will be a fantastic day in the lagoon pool. The party runs from 1:00 until 3:00 and there is a $15 per dog fee. The net proceeds will be donated to a local animal shelter for those dogs who do not get to enjoy country club living. Please make your reservations on Clubster or by sending me an email directly at tmervosh@resortdevpartners.com. This event is a weather dependent event, so as always, watch your Clubster app for any last-minute adjustments.
So, this past week, we continued to clean up lake banks, worked on drainage issues and treated the future fairways and roughs to prepare them for the cooler temperatures that are inevitable. The clubhouse work continues as well with the golf shop and ‘turn-room’ on the immediate radar. We’ve removed carpets and counters and will be painting with fresh brighter colors—a clear example of addition through subtraction.
As the days get a little shorter and night has a hint of a chill, we’ll continue to serve your needs in the Cabana Bar. Plan to have drinks and dinner with a nice warm fire in the fireplace while watching the Tigers and Cocks do battle. Look for an announcement for our fall menu and hours soon. It’s such a wonderful time of year to enjoy dinner and drinks under the stars and there’s no better place than the Cat Island Club Cabana. Get those four-legged fur babies ready for next week and as always, stay safe, have a great weekend and be sure to spend a few moments smelling the flowers!