Episode 53 - LIVE from RTJ: Scott Furlong on Hosting LIV, Agronomy, and the Future of Golf Maintenance
Description
This week on Golf and Politics, co-host Rob Ellsworth sits down with Scott Furlong, longtime superintendent of the iconic Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, to talk turf, tournaments, and the truth behind maintaining a world-class course. Recorded on the eve of LIV Golf Virginia, Scott shares what it takes to host back-to-back global events like the Solheim Cup and LIV Golf, and how weather, politics, and even immigration policy affect the game from the ground up.
With over 25 years at RTJ, Scott blends stories of mentorship, grit, and perfectionism with a behind-the-scenes look at how agronomy is evolving in the face of rising expectations and economic pressure.
Key Topics Covered:
LIV Golf Virginia: course setup, green speed, and player readiness
RTJ’s role in hosting world-class tournaments like the Solheim Cup and LIV
Building a career in turf: mentorship, immigration policy, and labor challenges
How Kyle Phillips’ design vision has shaped RTJ’s evolution
The “Augusta Effect” and its impact on member expectations
Tariffs, supply chain issues, and the rising costs of course maintenance
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