Adored by all and feared by none, Alisal Ranch Course Head Golf Professional Dave Hartley loves what he does and we are so glad he is on our team. Have you met Dave? Do you think you know him? In this interview, he gets personal. See how much you may not have known about Dave.
What is your title at Alisal and what do you do?
I am the Head Golf Professional at the Ranch Course at Alisal. I oversee all the daily operations at the Ranch Course that includes member and Ranch Guest Events and the golf shop staff.
How did you get into the golf world?
I was an unemployed, ex-stockbroker that lost everything on Black Monday stock market crash in 1987. I was playing the Golden State Mini Tour when Alisal built the River Course in 1992 and was hired as an assistant pro when River Course opened in October 1992. I was offered the Ranch Course Head Professional position in 2001 and have been there ever since.
What do you love most about what you do?
The best part of the position is that Resort Guests and Members are always happy when I see them daily because they are about to spend their day golfing at our beautiful and relaxing facility.
What is your top recommendation you think Alisal guests should try or do while staying here?
Every Ranch Guest should go on a Breakfast Ride on Horseback (Haywagon if physically cannot ride) to the Adobe. You can really see what 10000 acres feels like. This will likely be the most unique breakfast “journey” most people will take in their life. Unbelievable scenery, excellent food, and unique entertainment. It is a true ranch experience.
Where were you born and raised?
Santa Barbara County. Lifetime Californian.
Where has been your favorite place to live?
Santa Ynez Valley…God’s Country! Lake Tahoe is a distant second.
Where have you traveled to that you simply must return to?
Golf industry has allowed me to travel the world. My personal favorite is Ireland. The friendliest people in the world. Nothing but scenery, golf courses, and pubs…….what could be better?
What are your hobbies? What do you love to do most when not working for Alisal?
I love Poker! Been playing for 25 years. Highlight of my poker career was playing in the World Series of Poker Main Event. Most exhilarating week of my life.
What makes you feel most alive?
Being on one of the greatest golf courses in the world. Pebble Beach, Cypress Point, St. Andrews, Royal Melbourne, Royal County Down, and Ballybunion. The moment you are actually on the course is priceless for a lifetime golfer.
What is the one thing most people may not know about you?
1. I am completely deaf in my left ear since birth.
2. Also, I was awarded the 2013 Golf Professional of the Year award for our region of the Southern California PGA Section.
What is your favorite food?
Shellfish – Lobster, Shrimp, Scallops, and Sushi
What are your top three favorite Alisal menu items for events?
#1 – Prime Rib
#2 – Prime Rib
#3 – Prime Rib
For more information about the Ranch Course at Alisal, click here.
For more information about Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort, click here.
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