Meet Josh Clay: Kissing Tree Golf Club Manager

What are you most excited about with the course opening?

The anticipation of the feedback from guests. Being the first public course built in the last six years, and the buildup and excitement of golfers in the area is unbelievable. Golfers who have lived in this area most of their lives are going to be shocked at the views and topography the golf course offers. True Hill Country golf is right in their backyard. Plus, I will put our greens up against any in the state – they are that good.

What’s an interesting fact about the course that people may not know?

20 percent of the golf course is over the aquifer and as a result has natural spring fed ponds throughout the golf course. It adds to the natural beauty of the property.

What makes the KT Golf Course unique to other courses in Texas?

This golf course will offer all levels of golfers something that most golf courses aren’t set up to do and that’s a fun and exciting round of golf! On paper it’s not a long golf course (6,600 yards from the back tee) but from driveable Par 4s that incorporate risk reward water hazards around the green to reachable Par 5s if you cut the dogleg, the golf course gives each golfer what they are looking for depending on tees they choose to play. We encourage moving up a set of tees and really having some fun shooting a better score and giving yourself a chance at some birdies and eagles.

Can you tell us more about the Audubon certification?

The Audubon Certification Program for Golf is an award-winning education and certification program that helps golf courses protect our environment and preserve the natural heritage of the game of golf. It’s a complete environmental awareness practice that incorporates these main areas:

• Environmental Planning
• Wildlife and Habitat Management
• Chemical Use Reduction and Safety
• Water Conservation
• Water Quality Management
• Outreach and Education

What is your background with Troon and how did you make your way to KT?

I unofficially began my career with Troon back when I was just a junior in high school. I met a gentleman by the name of Tim Mahoney, top 100 golf instructor and Director of Education for Troon. Tim taught me everything about golf and helped mentor me onto playing collegiately and a few years professionally. When it was time to stop competing, I knew I wanted to work for a company that had given Tim the same platform to be passionate about his job and the ability to pass that onto others. I began working for Troon in 2007 and helped manage properties in California and Arizona. Most recently while managing in Arizona, I was introduced to Brookfield Residential and the opportunity to build a golf course. I couldn’t get here fast enough. It’s been one of the best experiences of my career.

What do you love most about San Marcos?

The location and the kindness of people. I love being outdoors and San Marcos offers everything I love to do. The people of San Marcos remind me of home growing up. You can’t beat the midwest, southern hospitality, that’s around here.