Turf Pirate’s Journal

By Anthony L. Williams, MG, CGCS, CGM Turf Pirate's Journal ( Origins )

Ahoy! Turf Pirates and welcome to

another thrilling episode of a Turf Pirates Journal. I trust that you are all well and working through the various levels of opportunity that are on the prevailing winds. There is no doubt that we are all sailing in uncharted waters but in times like this it’s our

basic skills that provide the direction and the ability to succeed even when the odds are against us. Remember this year’s Kentucky Derby winner Rich Strike was an 80 to 1 shot and

ran an inspiring race that shocked the world. In that light, we Turf Pirates often talk about our origins where we came from and various sundries

in many levels and sorts such as where we were born, the first golf course we worked on, the first course we were superintendent at, the first type (or color) of equipment we used, tournaments and events held etc.

These are all part of the tapestry that makes us who we are and it often

becomes our refuge in times of trial. I was fortunate to grow up in rural Georgia (see the picture of my Mom and Dad on our family farm in Indian Creek Georgia circa 1957) where my Dad (Sonny turns 93 this month) and Grand Dad (Ira) taught me the finer points of Agronomy and Agribusiness not to mention how to plow a horse and mule (shout out to Pete the work horse and Kate the mule). Honor dictates that having mentioned plowing horses and mules that a spirited Gee (right) Haw (left) Whoa (stop) Back (back up and center the row) be delivered for my ABAC friends many of whom are legendary Turf Pirates. One such person gave me a call the other day, he was an intern and supervisor for me about a zillion years ago. He said he was just calling to see how things were going and said two things that stuck with me. He said, “thanks for allowing me to develop my unique skills and choose my road (turf or trees) and he closed the call with “I hope that we work together again someday”. That made my day! In a world full of entitlements and uncertainty it’s nice to have relationships that stand up in good and bad times and across time itself. I also hope that we work together again someday. I will keep you guys posted should that reunion actually happen but the moral to the story is to remember where you came from and the folks that shaped your life and career. You see Turf Pirates all instinctively know that to get where you want to go you have to be at peace with where you’ve been. It’s tough to last 4 decades in the turf business

Sonny and Francis Williams (Anthony’s parents) on the family farm with Grandpa’s house in the background circa 1957. Note the classic front porch where tales are told and wisdom passed down!

but of all the legendary turf pirates I have met they all say this; a good foundation is necessary no matter what you are building. So how about it Turf Pirates call those folks that

shaped who you are and how you do business and tell them thank you and wish them well. Then take a

fond look at how far you have come and don’t forget to leave the porch light on for the next generation.