I have lived in Cheval since 2012 — 10 years. 

I’ve been playing golf since I was 10 years old.  I played growing up in Tampa at a par-3 course, Loch Raven.   My first job as a young teenager was working at Loch Raven on the driving range. Loch Raven was my practice facility.  I played for my high school, Tampa Catholic, and we were 3A State Champions in 1978.  Here at Cheval, I am a member of the Dewsweeper group.

My godfather was a club pro in Gloucester, MA, and he taught me the game at a young age.  He was a scratch golfer.  He lived in Gloucester, MA, but frequently vacationed here with my godmother.   He would take me out to Horizon Park to hit shag balls and hit the courses to play, primarily at Pebble Creek and Rocky Point.  During my teen years, I played with friends regularly at the city courses, Babe Zaharias, Rocky Point, and Rogers Park. One year I finished in second place in the Tampa Bay Junior Club Championships.  Many might know the kid who beat me, finishing in first place: Woody Austin.

All over our country, several courses in Mexico, Puerto Rico, the Cayman Islands, and the Dominican Republic. 

Here close to home, in addition to playing Cheval, all the Innisbrook courses, Disney courses, Fox Hollow, and Lake Jovita.  Away from home, a toss-up between several courses:  Kapalua in Maui, Torrey Pines in San Diego, Punta Espada in Cap Cana, PGA National in Palm Beach, and Cabo Del Sol in Cabo.  I love playing the beach courses where you can hear and see the surf while playing.  I also enjoy the mountain courses out west.  My favorite memory would be while playing Kapalua; I was on a hole facing the ocean, hitting my second shot to the green.  I hit the ball looked up, and in the sea behind the green, I saw a humpback whale breaching behind the green.  

Cheval is very challenging. Our course makes you think before every shot. You must consider the wind.  Club selection and position are critical, particularly off the tee. Water comes into play on practically every hole. Cheval will test you mentally as much as physically.

Here at Cheval, winning the Senior Club Championship in back-to-back years, 2021 and 2022. My holes-in-one here at Cheval and at other courses were all very exciting, but more memorable than those, I would have to say my albatross on number 7 here at Cheval and on number 6 at Sherman Hills. 

Weakness is staying focused and staying in the game during tough stretches. I think I do a lot of things well, but I would say my strengths are hitting the ball solid and long and keeping it straight. My short game is strong, as I can salvage a par most times when I miss the green in regulation.

The last time I played with my dad and my godfather, I was about 12 years old. I would love to play with them both now, along with Corey Pavin. Corey Pavin was my favorite golfer during his years on the tour, and I tried to copy his game. 

Go for it, whether you want to play competitively or just for fun. It’s a great game, but starting out, it would be best if you have patience. If you want to improve your game, you can’t just go out and play courses all the time. You must hit the range, putting green, and practice, practice, and practice. If you’re not the competitive type, then go play golf for fun. Get outside and enjoy the Florida weather that allows us to play golf 12 months out of the year. If you are a nature lover, golf is a great way to see nature, especially here at Cheval.

I love seafood, sushi, Italian and American food, particularly Southern home cooking.  I like to spend time on the golf course, dining out, concerts, relaxing in the pool, and watching sports. Family get-togethers are fun and full of great memories.  

I am a drummer and have played in bands for most of my life.  Sounds of Loco (Disco, Funk, and Latin),  Meanstreak and Defiance (Heavy Metal), and Jelyfinger (Classic Rock) are a few of the bands that I recorded and performed in live shows with.  I love to watch sports.  I am a Notre Dame and FSU fan for college and all the Boston teams for Professional Sports teams. I also love gardening, driving fast sports cars, traveling, bass fishing, and decorating for the holidays.

Eddie V’s, Bonefish, Olive Garden, Portillo’s, Home Goods, Home Depot, Big Lots for decorations.

Jam on my drums, play golf, listen to music, float around the pool, meditate in the jacuzzi, and chill in my lounge chair watching sports, drama, and thriller TV.  I really like the FBI shows, AGT, and I so wish they would bring back 24, although I think Jack Bauer might have retired by now.

There are plenty of neighborhood social events. I try to participate in these, such as the Christmas golf cart parade, Halloween haunted house, club events, and club videos.  I like to take wildlife and nature photos to share on Nextdoor.  Everyone helps each other in Cheval.  A perfect example is how everyone assisted and supported one another during the recent hurricane.  My future plans are to get more involved with animal shelters and animal rescue.

Cheval is clean and beautiful. It's secure. The nature and wildlife are incredible on the golf course and in the community.

Cheval is a great community.  I have built long-lasting relationships. I genuinely enjoy my time on the golf course with all the members. I plan to be here for the long haul.