S.2 Ep.5 - Robbie Marshall, Golf Data and Pearl Valley

<p>In this episode, I got to chat with Robbie Marshall, Chairman of Golf Data. </p> <p>A man of humble beginnings, Robbie takes us on a fascinating journey of how Golf Data, South Africa’s most successful course design business became the force it is today as well as befriending Jack Nicklaus and others along the way. We also delve into the partnership between Golf Data and Pearl Valley. </p> <p>A special thanks to Damian Wrigley, General Manager of Pearl Valley at Val de Vie for setting up this interview. </p> <p> </p> <p>Background to Robbie Marshall. </p> ROBBIE MARSHALL – CHAIRMAN (GOLF DATA) LOVE OF THE GAME <ul><li style="font-weight:400;">Robbie Marshall’s love for golf only started after his best friend from his service in the army (Robbie Chapman) introduced him to the game, yet although he had a late start to the game Robbie went on to play 1st League Golf in Johannesburg for 15 years, and during that time Robbie had the fortune to play with the likes of Bobby Locke at Ohenimuri & Gary Player at Crown Mines courses.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <ul><li style="font-weight:400;">Robbie has also played in the Dubai Desert Classic Pro Am with the US Open Champion Graeme McDowell, and with Ernie Els at the SA Open Pro Am, as well as at the opening of the Ernie Els Design course Oubaai which Golf Data Constructed</li> </ul>   PASSION FOR GOLF COURSES <ul><li style="font-weight:400;">Robert Douglas Marshall (“Robbie”) has been involved in the business of golf courses for more than 40 years having been the course superintendent at Ohenimuri Country Club & Crown Mines Golf Club from 1970.  Robbie, together with his wife Marie then started a close corporation called Lawn Doctor in 1981, and ultimately Golf Data CC was formed in 1989.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>Robbie’s early education in turf management started around 1980 when he was selected to attend a turf study course of America, visiting the Texas A&M University.  Although already well versed in turf management, this was Robbie’s first formal education in tu