Q: When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up and please explain if there was a story around that.
A: I have always gotten along with people and Costa Rica has always been a tourist destination. Growing up I pictured myself becoming a hotel manager, but on my days off I would caddie at the local golf course near my home, and I never looked back.
Q: What is one or two interesting facts about your heritage that you would like to share with us?
A: Our culture is different than most, at 18 years old your parents do not encourage you out of the house – they embrace family and support one another. I do not live with my family anymore, but they are still a very big part of my life and who I am today. I also like the fact that our culture has embraced other countries and taken in different aspects from all over the world to enhance the food and lifestyle in Costa Rica. Pura Vida
Q: Who got you into the business or game of golf and what was your first experience at a golf course?
A: When I was 14 years old, a friend of mine (same age) Irvin Armas asked me if I wanted to work as a caddie on the golf course with him. This was back in 1988, so many many years ago. In Costa Rica there were no books or any information about golf. Remember, YouTube and Google did not exist yet, so he taught me everything he knew about the game. I used that information to become a caddie and I still use a lot of that knowledge today.
Q: Was there a mentor that helped guide you along your current career path and was there a piece of advice that helped you along your way?
A: Head Pro for Louisville Kentucky US, Philip Krick asked me, would I like to teach golf? He gave me a book to read: “Five Lessons The Modern Fundamentals by Ben Hogan”. Two weeks later I was assisting the kids and ladies lessons.
The best advice that Philip ever game me was to always chose education over money. When you are growing in life you must focus and learn more skills. Money will come if you prepare for better opportunities.
Q: How long have you worked for Troon and what has been your career progression; what do you love most about your job?
A: I have worked with Troon almost 3 years. I love the challenge, to be involved in different areas of the hospitality business, and the fact that we have access to the knowledge from other facilities and associates around the world is amazing.
Q: What do you do in your daily job or life to inspire other minorities to get them interested in the game of golf or into the golf business as a career?
A: Being located in Costa Rica, I am not in the minority, but working here at Reserva Conchal for more than 14 years I have helped grow the game for many of Ticos. Golf is not a huge sport still in Costa Rica we only have nine courses in the country. But people are starting to really love the game.
To be success in my life, I have found that I needed courage and discipline. I have had the average opportunities that anyone can have – I came from public schools and had to work to pay for my college schooling. Being organized on my financials allow me to invest in real state to have another source of income! If I did it, anyone can do it.
Q: What is your dream foursome for golf (you and three others)?
A: Adam Sandler, Elon Musk, and Michael Jordon
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