The Back of the Range

A private club in Texas is turning its amateur invitational into one of the most coveted weeks in mid-am and senior golf. Emile Asous, Director of Golf at The Club at Carlton Woods reveals why The Carlton Woods Invitational keeps growing, how the course tests elite players without ruining the experience, and what makes October the perfect reset for the field. Emile shares what it takes to host a serious 54-hole championship while still making every player feel like a member for the week.You'll discover: Why moving the tournament from late spring to October strengthened the field and improved the overall experience What makes the Jack Nicklaus course such a demanding but fair test, from green complexes to pin positions and scoring windows How the club balances a “serious competition” with a relaxed post-round atmosphere, dinners, and locker-room camaraderie Why member support, committee culture, and true hospitality are the backbone of a successful amateur event Emile also explains Carlton Woods' long commitment to amateur golf and how that tradition shapes the Invitational today. Carlton Woods Invitational - Official Website The Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY! Also Subscribe in YouTube, Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher Follow on Social Media! Email us: [email protected] Website: www.thebackoftherange.com Voice Work by Mitch Phillips

Blake Smart, head coach of the University of Memphis, joins The Back of the Range to discuss the long road to building a successful college golf program. From Bucee’s-fueled van trips and early-career sacrifices to a breakthrough season, Smart shares the lessons that shaped his coaching philosophy. He reflects on his time at Berry College, Kennesaw State, and Oklahoma, explaining why hard work, trust, and finding the right fit matter in recruiting and player development. Smart also discusses navigating NIL, building team culture with an international roster, and the emotional journey to Memphis’s first NCAA Championship appearance under his leadership. Plus, hear why the Quail Valley Collegiate victory felt meaningful—and what the Tigers learned at Nationals as they look ahead. Blake Smart - Memphis Men's Golf Coach The Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY! Also Subscribe in YouTube, Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher Follow on Social Media! Email us: [email protected] Website: www.thebackoftherange.com Voice Work by Mitch Phillips

Former mini-tour pro Andrew Bailey’s unlikely path to becoming U.S. Mid-Amateur champion began on Cleveland’s municipal courses. In this episode, he shares why he left professional golf, how reinstatement as an amateur changed his game, and how a chance pairing with Cleveland State coach Steve Weir helped shape his journey. Bailey reflects on the grind of the SwingThought Tour, the joy and community he found in amateur golf, and the pressure of his U.S. Mid-Amateur run. He also discusses earning exemptions to the Masters and U.S. Open, the future of the mid-amateur, and what it means to approach competition as a student of golf history. The Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY! Also Subscribe in YouTube, Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher Follow on Social Media! Email us: [email protected] Website: www.thebackoftherange.com Voice Work by Mitch Phillips

Wake Forest senior Macy Pate stops by The Back of the Range to share the story behind her team-voted exemption to compete at The Annika Driven by Gainbridge—and her upcoming LPGA debut. She reflects on growing up near Wake Forest, finding a family in the women’s golf program, and balancing elite competition with academics. Macy also discusses the mentors and teammates who shaped her and the legacy she hopes to leave at Wake Forest. A conversation about gratitude, ambition, and taking the next big step while staying true to what matters. Macy Pate - Wake Forest Women's Golf The Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY! Also Subscribe in YouTube, Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher Follow on Social Media! Email us: [email protected] Website: www.thebackoftherange.com Voice Work by Mitch Phillips

Johnnie Clark of the University of New Mexico is making a statement: he won his first three stroke-play events this fall, a rare feat in Division I golf. In this episode, he shares the journey behind his breakthrough, from discovering the game at six in Mesa, Arizona, to competing against future PGA Tour talent as a junior. Johnnie talks about emailing top college programs at 16, his experience at Oklahoma State, and why transferring to New Mexico helped him find a better fit. He also takes us on the road, reflecting on a team trip to Japan filled with Tokyo adventures plus a memorable Canadian tournament. Hear how he stays focused by ignoring leaderboards, trusting his game, and embracing the people around him—and what his rise could mean for a future in professional golf. Johnnie Clark - University of New Mexico Men's Golf The Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY! Also Subscribe in YouTube, Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher Follow on Social Media! Email us: [email protected] Website: www.thebackoftherange.com Voice Work by Mitch Phillips