Interview with David Reasoner

Interview by Paul Mahoney at The Barclays

The Barclays MVPs
David Reasoner
The head pro, Ridgewood Country Club, Paramus, N.J.

What's it like having a major golf tournament clambering all over your course?
It's a labor of love. This golf course is such a hidden gem. It's fun to watch the greatest golfers playing one of the greatest courses. The build up has been stressful. This is a big production. You know, the circus is coming to town. Huge structures have kinda taken over the place. But it has been fun to watch it grow.

Expecting big crowds?
We're going to have a lot of spectators - if the rain ever goes away (laughs). It's okay, the forecast for the tournament days is 80 degrees and sunny.

Do you feel privileged to host the first Playoff event?
This playoff tournament is a big deal. Guys moved in and out on qualification last weekend. They're all talking about where they stand. The Barclays and the PGA have done such a great job. The PGA do this every week - they have it down to a science. The Barclays people are a great bunch. Great communicators. They understand golf.

Best viewing spots?
One is the 5th, called the 'five and dime' hole. It's a drivable par four. From the top of that green, you can watch six holes. You'll see guys driving the green and plenty on birdies. Then there is the short par three 15th. From the back of the tee, it's only 155 yards. It has that stadium feel to it like the 17th at Sawgrass or the 16th at TPC Scottsdale - maybe not that crazy, though. But you never know with a New York crowd (laughs).

Character of the course?
Huge Oak trees set the stage and give it a big feel. But it's an old traditional golf course built in 1890. Players love it. There are a variety of short and long holes.

What style of player will win?
The person that wins will be the most patient. You have to know when to be conservative and know when to be aggressive. There are birdies out there but a lot of holes where you just need to make par and get outta there. If they don't drive it in the fairway, the rough is really brutal.

So, just between us, who's your money on?
I would love to see Tiger do well. Ernie Els is leading the Fed Ex Playoffs and plays well here. Dustin Johnson is in good form. But I like Bo Van Pelt. He is the one to watch. He's on form and playing consistent golf.

Has anyone sneaked out for early practice rounds before tournament week?
Phil Mickelson and Heath Slocum have been here but no one else.

Do you look over at the pros and wonder 'what if?'
A little bit. Makes you want to work on your game and get out there (smiles). I would love to give it a shot on tour. I wanted to but was offered this job and jumped at it.

Slightly better salary, though, for the tour pros, perhaps?
Well maybe just a little bit - if they're playing well (smiles). I can play bad and make the same amount of money that I already do. They make a little bit more money than me and have some nice perks. But I do just fine here. This is a great spot to come to work.