Playing a Round with… Rick Hamilton

We spoke to Rick Hamilton, Course Manager at La Grande Mare, about the challenges of working with the elements, career highlights from around the world and why he wants Clint Eastwood to ‘make his day’.

Where did your interest in golf and course management come from?

I always loved watching golf as a child with my grandfather, who was addicted to the game. I never played until I moved to Australia in 1990, where I started my career at Royal Perth Golf Club.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

I get a great deal of satisfaction out of working with a great team and managing a beautiful property that golfers enjoy.

Can you share a memorable career highlight with us?

My first high-profile job for the PGA, European & Asian tours was in 2012. We had to completely renovate the Olazabal course at Mission Hills China in preparation for the WGC-HSBC Champions event. The eventual winner of the tournament was Ryder Cup star Ian Poulter.

What is the most challenging aspect of keeping a course in good condition?

I find dealing with environmental stress caused by factors like drought, heavy rain, heat and cold to be the most challenging part of my job.

Where is your favourite golf course, anywhere in the world?

My old favourite would be Kau Sai Chau public golf course in Hong Kong, where I was fortunate enough to work for 10 years. Of course, my new favourite is La Grande Mare.

What are you most looking forward to when the course opens next year?

I really enjoy watching golfers coming in after their round with a big smile on their faces.

Who would you most like to play a round with and why?

AI would love to play a round of golf with Clint Eastwood because he is one of my all-time favourite actors, and of course, he is a passionate golfer. We would stand on the first tee and he’d turn to me and say, ‘Go ahead, make my day’.

“We had to completely renovate the Olazabal course at Mission Hills China in preparation for the WGC-HSBC Champions event. The eventual winner of the tournament was Ryder Cup star Ian Poulter”