Ask Thad: When do you walk away?

(Graphic: Golfdom Staff)

Got a question for Thad? Tweet to @TerryHillsMaint and @Golfdom or email Thad at thadthompson@terryhills.com.

How old do you want to be when you retire? 

— Matt, Boalsburg, Pa.

I’m not sure I will ever fully retire from golf course life. Golf courses, getting up early, solving problems on the fly and the daily routine are a big part of who I am. I always hear from people smarter than me, who usually are not in the golf business, that your work shouldn’t define you. I disagree. I’m proud as hell about what I’ve accomplished over the last 33 seasons and what it says about me and my character. I was allowed to make mistakes and learn from them. I’ve gotten to mentor several young people, including my two boys who both spent the season after high school working for me. I’ve made invaluable contacts and friends across the country because of what I do for a living. At some point in the distant future, I may not be able to work on the golf course, but I will never retire from the life.

What’s your take on White Claw?

— Eric, Orchard Park, N.Y

A few years ago, it was lime-flavored beer, now it’s White Claw. Any golf course worker can clearly see what’s trending week to week and year to year. Go collect the garbage tomorrow morning at your course. Now you’re an expert also. I’m a Keystone Light guy. Not the most elite taste, I’ll grant you, but some of the greats still enjoy it. It’s Flecky’s beer, so that’s good enough for me. I see a bunch of craft beer snobs drinking 18-percent Triple IPA Skunk Water, and it makes me shiver. White Claw is probably the latest fad, but we’ll see what’s next in a couple years. I’d drink a White Claw before an IPA, but I’d need a glass.