MEET THE TEAM!
Name: Ainslie Saunders
Role:
Founder & Managing Director
Where do you live?
Southern Highlands, NSW Australia
Which Golf Club are you a member at?
Moss Vale Golf Club
Handicap
29 – I’m in the office more than I’m out on the course!
What is the best golf club you’ve ever played at?
It’s so hard to choose! I’ve been fortunate enough to play on so many amazing courses…. Finca Cortesin in Spain was amazing, especially when the drinks cart came around to our group to give everyone cups of chilled Gazpacho. Mauna Lani Golf Club’s South Course on the Big Island in Hawaii is spectacular too.
Which club is on your bucket list to play?
Cape Kidnappers in New Zealand
What do you enjoy the most about hosting tours?
Meeting all the new people who come on our tours, getting to know each person and seeing the friendships that develop between everyone. I love hearing about those friendships growing outside of the tours too. We have lots of repeat guests, and when they book on another of our tours, with a friend that they made on a previous G&T trip, that really is just so special.
What do you love the most about travelling?
I love experiencing different cultures. I travel to see how different life is in other places, but what I’ve learnt is how similar we all are.
What do you think are the most important attributes of a Tour Host?
A Tour Hosts’ role is to create an extraordinary travel experience. They need to be well organised, calm, fun, engaging and inclusive.
What do you do when you’re not hosting tours?
I am the Founder and Managing Director of Golf & Tours. If I’m not hosting a tour, you’re likely to find me in the office. I love gardening, and spend as much time as I can in our garden.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am a mother, wife, aunty, sister, daughter and a seasoned traveller. I love my family and was very lucky to have been raised in a family who valued the education that travelling can bring. I have tried to pass that on to my daughter too, and have taken her to many places around the globe. I love travelling like a local, and always prefer to have authentic experiences. I’m always asking locals that I meet to tell me where they go to eat and drink.
Testimonials for Ainslie
… Ainslie – you are a brilliant host and communicator and I can honestly say you make G&T the success it is because of all your hard work in the preparation beforehand and the email communication leading up to. It was a very easy tour for the clients – and a holiday. Thank You. Robyn, Melbourne, VIC
…The 2022 Hawaii Golf Tour was beyond compare. Even as a relatively new golfer (and high handicapper) I had a great time golfing on some really challenging courses. I’ve never had so many laughs trying to get my ball out of a bunker or saying goodbye to my ball as it bounced off volcanic rock or sailed into the beautiful pacific ocean. Ainslie and her team provided exceptional service and clearly love Hawaii as much as I now do. Michelle, Dubbo, NSW
…Ainslie is an exceptional host. The courses we played on were challenging with water, sand and trees but still totally enjoyed them. The accommodation was 5 star, villas beautiful and clean, great dining and staff very helpful and obliging. Could not be happier with Golf & Tours and highly recommend that you go on a journey with Ainslie. Looking forward to further tours. Donna, Moree, NSW
…The Spain & Portugal golf tour was my first solo golf tour and also my first time to Europe, so to say I was nervous is a understatement, upon meeting Ainslie and Tiff, any trepidation that I felt was immediately vanished. They both are such warm, funny and intelligent women who empower other women to be the best that they can be. There is nothing that Ainslie & Tiff wouldn’t do to ensure that we had the most wonderful experience. Asides from the golf the other activities that were included in the tour were outstanding. Debbie, Lota, QLD
Name : Ben Saunders
Role:
Managing Director
Where do you live?
Southern Highlands, NSW Australia
Which Golf Club are you a member at?
Moss Vale Golf Club
Handicap
21
What is the best golf club you’ve ever played at?
My favourite course has to be North Berwick Golf Course outside of Edinburgh in Scotland. A classic old-school links course.
Which club is on your bucket list to play?
I have a very long bucket list, but high up there would be Pebble Beach, King Island and Loften Links.
What do you enjoy the most about hosting tours?
For me, the most incredible thing about hosting tours is seeing the joy we can bring to people through care and attention to those little details that make each individual’s experience of the tour go to that next level. Playing some of the best courses in the most amazing places in the world doesn’t hurt either.
What do you love the most about travelling?
Travelling is a whole mind and body experience. Liking someone else’s selfie on Santorini in your social media is nice but it doesn’t tell you what the sun feels like when you are actually there when it’s coupled with the smell of the place, the sound of the wind and birds or the taste of the food. Travel is about experiencing and feeling the world.
What do you think are the most important attributes of a Tour Host?
A tour host needs to have their eyes and ears open all the time to be able to anticipate and react to any situation whilst on tour. And the confidence to react professionally to any challenge they might face.
What do you do when you’re not hosting tours?
I am a Managing Director at Golf & Tours. If I’m not hosting a tour, you’ll find me supporting our other amazing hosts from the office, or playing a round at Moss Vale Golf Course.
Tell us a bit about yourself
Gathering with intention is one of my passions. Bringing people together with the intention to undertake a specific activity that forms a fundamental link to all the people involved, gives us a springboard to explore each other’s stories and journeys and in doing so build and nurture connections, community and belonging.
Testimonials for Ben
… Ainslie and Ben are two fabulous people who are extremely committed to ensure every person on their golfing tour has the best experience possible. The tee times and accommodation were perfect and their flexibility post golf was perfect. We sincerely wish Ainslie and Ben all the very best for a promising future in bringing people together to play golf on the best courses in the world. The golf trip was flawless and extremely well organized, we wouldn’t travel with another tour operator, as I doubt they could be as efficient as G&T Tours, we had an amazing golfing holiday, thanks to Ainslie and Ben. Paul, Adelaide, SA
… A trip of a lifetime…exceptional courses, accommodation, and cultural activities hosted by Ben and Ainslie that made our Scottish tour one to remember. Karen, Brisbane, QLD
… This was the first Golf Tour I experienced and was a little apprehensive especially being a person not really keen on tours of any kind, but from the very minute I met Ainslie and Ben I knew this was going to be fun. And what fun it was. The organisation was excellent, the choice of venues top class and 5 star in every way. I could not fault the tour in anyway whatsoever, Ainslie and Ben went out of their way to ensure a Golf Trip of a lifetime for everyone. Well done loved every minute. Mike, Noosa, QLD
… What a trip!! No words can truly express how wonderful this week in Pebble Beach & Half Moon Bay has been. Thank you for embracing David and I. I feel like we have known each other for such a long time, and consider you dear friends. The experiences we shared will continue to warm my heart. I sincerely hope our paths will cross in the future. Ben and Ainslie you are an inspiration. I wish you both continued success and happiness. Thank you for welcoming us into your family. Robin – Pennsylvania, USA
Name: Caroline Rattenbury
Role:
Operations Manager (& Tour Host)
Where do you live?
Perth, WA Australia
Which Golf Club are you a member at?
I am not yet associated with a club however have just started lessons at Wembley Golf Club which is beautiful!
Handicap
Stay tuned…
What do you enjoy the most about your role with Golf & Tours?
I thoroughly enjoy planning our tours, learning about new destinations (in the hope to one day travel there) and help people achieve their dreams of travelling to world class, bucket list destinations. I love that I am able to work so closely with our incredible tour hosts and get to talk with our guests throughout their entire experience with us. We are always striving to create wonderful connections between guests which is so important. It is wonderful to witness new and genuine friendships develop off the back of travelling with us.
What do you enjoy the most about hosting tours?
Meeting new people, travelling to great destinations and have a wonderful time. For me seeing and feeling the beautiful connections everyone makes is so special, in todays’ world, feeling connected, and important, is vital to our well-being and to be able to play a part in making someone feel wonderful, feel looked after and cared for is very important to me.
What do you love the most about travelling?
Exploring new destinations and immersing yourself in a difference culture is wonderful. People love to connect, and no matter where you are, this doesn’t really change. Oh and of course….. who can go past all of the glorious food!
What do you think are the most important attributes of a Tour Company?
A reputable and trustworthy reputation along with a well organised, well planned and executed experience is essential. We like our guests to not have to worry about any of the planning, to know they can just turn up and we have the everything covered. Safety is of the utmost importance to us, so we ensure we have fully researched our destinations. It is also imperative that the guests and hosts have support when they need it, and we ensure that is always available.
What do you do when you’re not hosting tours?
My role at Golf & Tours also covers the operations of the business. This means you will often find me at the end of an email or the end of the phone! I thoroughly enjoy working with all our suppliers, and our team to deliver a great guest experience. When you finally get to meet someone after only speaking over email or phone, it like catching up with a long lost friend!
Tell us a bit about yourself
I live along the northern beaches of Perth, in Western Australia with my family which consists of my partner, 2 children, 2 dogs and 7 chickens! You will often find us down at the beach (not the chickens) or on a great road trip. WA has so many beautiful places to travel too, I am not sure if we will ever see it all. I am originally from Tasmania and have lived in many places along the east coast of Australia. WA is definitely home for me now though, although I would always consider migrating north for the winter! I have recently started golf lessons and can absolutely see why everyone loves it so much. I can’t wait to get on the course and start honing my new skills.
Testimonials for Caroline
Just wanted to follow up and say what a wonderful trip the Half Moon Bay & Pebble Beach tour was . I have to say Caroline and Margaret were awesome and did so much above what was required of them. The whole experience was so much fun and with such a great group of people Can’t say enough. Thanks so much.
John Bentley Canada
Name: Tiffany Mika
Role:
Teaching Professional & Tour Host
Where do you live?
Bayview, NSW Australia
What is the best golf club you’ve ever played at?
Kapalua in Maui
Which club is on your bucket list to play?
Augusta National (USA)
What do you enjoy the most about hosting tours?
I love meeting new people, travelling, going to new places, playing new courses that I haven’t played before and helping those on the tour improve their golf games. And of course, having fun! Going away on tours is all about having fun memorable experiences!
What do you love the most about travelling?
I love exploring new destinations. It’s exciting and fun!
What do you think are the most important attributes of a Tour Host?
Being Professional, Adaptable, Flexible, Helpful, Genuine, Organized and Personable.
What do you do when you’re not hosting tours?
I teach golf to ladies of all levels, both clinics and private lessons. I am The Lady Golf Teacher and Co-Founder of Golf Bargains. I have also written a book, Focus which teaches people how to accomplish their goals in sport, business and life.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I have a passion for helping others both golfers and sports people, to accomplish their sports dreams. Whatever their sports dream may be! From building confidence, to playing 9 holes socially with their friends, competing in 18 hole competitions and reducing their handicap and helping athletes compete on the world stage.
Sport has been part of my life all of my life, therefore I love it! I love training at the gym daily, as it is important for me to look after myself so that I am fit and strong. I still love to practice. I love to go to the driving range and hit golf balls, practice out on the golf course with my Mum (spend quality time together) or get out my tennis ball machine and practice tennis. I love to travel and go to new destinations with my husband (and of course play golf with him too!). I just love life. I embrace it and pursue things I love to do.
Testimonials for Tiff
…You could not have a better person as Tiffany Mika to both lead a group of women of different personalities, have them all relaxed and laughing, learning a lot about their Golf and having a really wonderful fun week. Tiff, I can’t thank you enough. I met you on the very first tour that Golf and Tours ran that at the Gold Coast and it’s a joy and a pleasure to see you doing this job so well. So grateful for the experience you gave us all- I look forward to the next trip. Susie Davison, NSW
… The Golf & Tours trip to the Gold Coast exceeded my expectations. It was just the break I needed to have some fun, meet lovely people, play golf & learn skills. Being relatively new to golf, I never thought I’d be able to play on some fabulous courses & get a whole ‘golf experience’ so early in my journey. Our coach, Tiff, was very encouraging & we learnt some very practical techniques that you could use immediately to improve your game. I learned & laughed so much! Will definitely do another tour like this in the future. Fran, Bentleigh, VIC
… This was my first golf tour, but from my very first interaction with Ben Saunders at Golf &Tours to the last day playing golf, everything was so well planned and organised. Tiff Mika, our coach and mentor, made us all feel valued and gave us some very useful coaching sessions and tips without trying to change our natural way of playing golf. I thoroughly enjoyed the week and will be using Golf & Tours again. Kim, Buddina, QLD
… The Kangaroo Valley weekend was fabulous. We met on a lovely blue sky day, whilst surrounded by native bush, with a welcome introduction from Tiffany. The golf games were challenging and fun. The clinics and tuition were helpful as we played on the course. So good to share the time with other enthusiasts with plenty of laughs and friendship. Hope to go on another trip some time. Joy Mosman, NSW
… It was so great to have the time on the course over the weekend where Tiff could watch each individual and then give advice specific to that person. The teaching environment was fun and comfortable with no pressure. Really liked that there was no competition over the weekend. Also loved the simplicity of Tiff’s approach. Trisha, Haberfield, NSW
Name: Jan-Lois Nel
Role:
Tour Host
Where do you live?
I live in Johannesburg, South Africa
Which Golf Club are you a member at?
I’m a proud member of Royal Johannesburg Golf Club.
Handicap
0
What is the best golf club you’ve ever played at?
The Links at Fancourt in South Africa stands out as the best course I’ve ever played—it’s truly exceptional.
Which golf club is on your bucket list to play?
Cape Kidnappers in New Zealand is at the top of my bucket list.
What do you enjoy the most about hosting tours?
I absolutely love having a front-row seat to watch our guests create lifelong memories. Being part of their unforgettable experiences and sharing in their joy is incredibly rewarding.
What do you love the most about traveling?
Traveling allows me to explore new places, meet fascinating people, and experience a variety of cultures. It’s always an enriching journey.
What do you think are the most important attributes of a Tour Host?
I believe a great tour host needs to be dedicated to providing an exceptional guest experience, friendly, culturally aware, attentive to detail, disciplined, and an expert problem-solver with a high work ethic.
What do you do when you’re not hosting tours?
When I’m not hosting tours, you’ll likely find me on the golf course, enjoying a proper South African braai (our way of saying barbecue), working on my marketing business, or spending quality time with family and friends.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m deeply passionate about golf and have a profound love for my home country, South Africa. My biggest goal is to make a significant, positive impact here. When I host tours, I aim to ensure every guest leaves with a newfound love for South Africa, just as I have.
Testimonials for Jan-Lois
… JayLo was fantastic—knowledgeable, friendly, and truly passionate about showcasing the best of South Africa. He took care of everything, allowing us to immerse ourselves fully in the experience without a worry in the world. Andreas, Switzerland
… We were totally amazed by every detail of the trip. Jay-Lo was exceptionally organized and professional and made sure everything was right. We never had to handle our baggage at all!. Sharon, Australia
… Jay Lo was fantastic and had everything covered from start to finish. First class all the way. Mary-Jo, USA
Name: Nicolaas Johannes Van Der Walt
Role:
Tour Host
Where do you live?
I live in Johannesburg, South Africa
Which Golf Club are you a member at?
I’m a proud member of Royal Johannesburg Golf Club.
Handicap
0
What is the best golf club you’ve ever played at?
New South Wales Golf Club in Australia has been the highlight of my golfing adventures so far.
Which golf club is on your bucket list to play?
Playing at St Andrews in Scotland is at the very top of my bucket list.V
What do you enjoy the most about hosting tours?
The most fulfilling part of hosting tours is having the privilege of seeing guests create lifelong memories. Knowing I’ve played a part in their incredible experiences is truly special.
What do you love the most about traveling?
I enjoy discovering new places, meeting diverse people, and immersing myself in different cultures. It’s a constant source of inspiration and growth.
What do you think are the most important attributes of a Tour Host?
A great tour host must be dedicated to guest satisfaction, friendly, culturally aware, detail-oriented, disciplined, and an expert problem-solver with a strong work ethic.
What do you do when you’re not hosting tours?
When I’m not hosting tours, I’m working on my online golf equipment and embroidery business, enjoying sporting matches, and expanding my knowledge on a variety of topics. I also cherish spending quality time with my friends and family.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
As someone with a passion for both finance and golf, I enjoy combining my love for numbers with my love for the sport. I’m deeply committed to making a positive impact in South Africa and to helping visitors experience its beauty. Hosting tours is an opportunity to create unforgettable moments for guests and share in their joy as they discover everything South Africa has to offer.
Name: Maxine Corfield
Role:
Tour Host
Where do you live?
Eltham, VIC Australia
Which Golf Club are you a member at?
Latrobe Golf Club
Handicap
26
What is the best golf club you’ve ever played at?
I have been lucky to play at a variety of different courses both in Australia and overseas- many are memorable for different reasons – Millbrook Resort in New Zealand, Black Mountain in Thailand and closer to home my home town, Port Fairy and Moonah Links where I had a hole in one!
Which club is on your bucket list to play?
St Andrews, as it is the Home of Golf
What do you enjoy the most about hosting tours?
I really enjoy ensuring that the group has a memorable time, and they have fun both playing golf and socially. When I remember the golf trips I’ve taken, it is the great people I met that made the trip fun.
What do you love the most about travelling?
I love the adventure of travel – new places, people, scenery, culture, food. Everything really!
What do you think are the most important attributes of a Tour Host?
Ensuring everyone has a memorable, fun, stress free time. It’s so important to be organised and ensuring that our guests are well informed around what is happening each day. Being someone who is aware of group dynamics and can mediate smoothly where necessary is also helpful.
What do you do when you’re not hosting tours?
I retired in 2020 from a 40+ year nursing career. Subsequently I have a more relaxed lifestyle, which I have slotted into easily! The activities that keep me busy are: playing golf, learning bridge, looking after my rehomed dog – Frank, minding grandsons and gardening. I am not bored!
Tell us a bit about yourself
My motto in life is “ We do not know what tomorrow will bring “, so everyday is important to me, as there are no second chances. I enjoy meeting and talking to people. A nickname I have had is ”Mrs Have-a-chat”. I also know when to be quiet!
Testimonials for Maxine & Mary
… Maxine & Mary are two very lovely ladies. They were very informative at all times. We were never left wondering what was happening next. Would love to do another golf tour with them. Christine, Kennington, VIC
… They were sensational. They were inclusive, friendly, happy, always smiling, super prepared and really proud of their hosting roles. Would go on a trip with Mary & Maxine again in a heartbeat. Sam, North Lambton, NSW
… Thank you Golf & Tours. Our Mornington Golf Escape was excellent. Have not laughed so much for quite awhile. Mary and Maxine were excellent hosts. “I’ll be back” Sue, Coleraine, VIC
…We are having an incredible time. Maxine and Mary could not be more attentive and adept at making everyone feel included and cared for. Gotta love those girls. And we all do. Archie & Tammy, Arkansas, USA
…We had a fantastic time. Golf & Tours and hosts Mary & Maxine made the whole experience fun and stress free. We would wholeheartedly return for another experience like this tour. Jacinta & Bernie Lyons, Kew, VIC
Name: Mary Neville
Role:
Tour Host
Where do you live?
Melbourne, VIC Australia
Which Golf Club are you a member at?
Latrobe Golf Club
Handicap
24
What is the best golf club you’ve ever played at?
Lord Howe Island Golf Course is a favourite, not because of the condition of the course but the amazing views of the ocean and Mt Gower. I am often more interested in the views, vegetation and birds on a golf course than my golf.
Which club is on your bucket list to play?
Cape Wickham Golf Club looks amazing and is certainly one I would like to play some time.
What do you enjoy the most about hosting tours?
I enjoy meeting the diverse group of people that golf brings together. Of course, I also enjoy playing all the wonderful courses that Golf & Tours organise for our clients.
What do you love the most about travelling?
Travelling near or far gives us a chance to see life from a different perspective and get a little taste of different cultures. That’s not to mention the taste of the local wines and food!
What do you think are the most important attributes of a Tour Host?
As the main priority of a good host is to make sure everyone has a great time, I think quiet, no fuss problem solving is a must. A good sense of fun and humour is also a very important attribute.
What do you do when you’re not hosting tours?
Apart from playing golf once or twice a week, I still enjoy my part time job as a passionate oncology nurse and spending time with my family and friends. Eating out and listening to live music is also a favourite pastime.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am a relatively late comer to golf but have made more friends from all walks of life than at any other time through the game. I have been fortunate to travel quite a lot over the years and in recent years, adding golf to the itinerary has made for many wonderful experiences. I am always ready to chat to people and interested to hear about their lives and experiences.
Testimonials for Maxine & Mary
… Maxine & Mary are two very lovely ladies. They were very informative at all times. We were never left wondering what was happening next. Would love to do another golf tour with them. Christine, Kennington, VIC
… They were sensational. They were inclusive, friendly, happy, always smiling, super prepared and really proud of their hosting roles. Would go on a trip with Mary & Maxine again in a heartbeat. Sam, North Lambton, NSW
… Thank you Golf & Tours. Our Mornington Golf Escape was excellent. Have not laughed so much for quite awhile. Mary and Maxine were excellent hosts. “I’ll be back” Sue, Coleraine, VIC
…We are having an incredible time. Maxine and Mary could not be more attentive and adept at making everyone feel included and cared for. Gotta love those girls. And we all do. Archie & Tammy, Arkansas, USA
…We had a fantastic time. Golf & Tours and hosts Mary & Maxine made the whole experience fun and stress free. We would wholeheartedly return for another experience like this tour. Jacinta & Bernie Lyons, Kew, VIC
Name: Heather Alsop
Role:
Tour Host
Where do you live?
Adelaide, SA Australia
Which Golf Club are you a member at?
The Grange Golf Club
Handicap
14
What is the best golf club you’ve ever played at?
Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin Thailand and Bonville NSW
Which club is on your bucket list to play?
Kapalua on Maui
What do you enjoy the most about hosting tours?
Meeting like minded people who have a love for golf and travel and to try and ensure they have the best possible experience on their holiday and knowing that they will look forward to travelling with Golf & Tours again.
What do you love the most about travelling?
Experiencing new cultures and lifestyles and also the excitement leading up to the holiday!
What do you think are the most important attributes of a Tour Host?
Being open, patient, organised, reliable and above all else, really enjoying meeting new people and wanting them to get as much out of their golf trip as possible.
What do you do when you’re not hosting tours?
Seeing as I’m semi retired, I’m looking after my very large pup, I’m also on the women’s committee at my golf club The Grange, and enjoying my new home in Adelaide.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am an outgoing, friendly person who loves to be active. I spent 19 years of my working career as a Flight Attendant, which is where my love of travel began. Working as a Flight Attendant taught me to be understanding of people’s needs, and to be able to multi task, be organised and punctual. Using my customer service skills is second nature to me.
I have a passion for all things golf and prior to COVID-19 would snow ski as much as I could with my husband. I also love to eat out and discover new shopping destinations.
Testimonials for Heather
… Heather is the perfect host, how fortunate you are to have such an organized charming caring person to work for you. Josie, Brighton East, VIC
… Many thanks to Heather. A great way to met other woman golfers, in a smaller group. It was a really good experience. A well organised week with a great host and fellow golfers. Carol, Tannum Sands, QLD
… Excellent well organised tour, and courses were excellent, you had time with day off to explore the district and meeting like minded ladies, and our host Heather was excellent. Julie, Glen Innes, NSW
Name: Margaret D’Alessandro
Role:
Tour Host
Where do you live?
New Jersey USA
Which Golf Club are you a member at?
North Jersey Country Club
Handicap
18
What is the best golf club you’ve ever played at?
Pebble Beach I played there last April it was amazing! The course scenary and views were outstanding!
Which club is on your bucket list to play?
I have so many but plan on going to Ireland in Sept and playing Waterville and Hogs Head! Scotland is also on my list!
What do you enjoy the most about hosting tours?
I love seeing people come together with the same passion for travel and golf! Its great to see people becoming new friends and smiling and enjoying every last moment of the trip! I enjoy making sure the group is having a memorable experience and try to include everyone so we all as a group feel connected!
What do you do when you’re not hosting tours?
I am a nurse for over 34 years. I now work as a school nurse part time and I spend as much time as I can playing golf! I also play paddle in winter months! I also love planning family vacations for my family!
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am at the point in my life that I can work a little and play golf and travel! Spending time with my family and being able to enjoy life to its fullest is a gift!
Name: Christine Frazier
Role:
Tour Host
Where do you live?
Grand Cayman/Boston, Massachusetts USA
Which Golf Club are you a member at?
The Ritz Carlton Golf Club, Grand Cayman, North Sound Golf Club, Grand Cayman
Handicap
12
What is the best golf club you’ve ever played at?
The Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai. Lush fairways, bunkers with brilliant white sand and perfect greens.
Mid Ocean Club in Bermuda. Breathtaking views and unforgettable holes with a lot of elevation changes.
Which club is on your bucket list to play?
My list is very long but the top three would be Augusta National Golf Club, Royal County Down, Pebble Beach.
What’s your golfing journey / how / when / why did you start?
My father was an avid golfer. I am one of 6 children, and my father introduced us all to the game growing up. I enjoyed playing from the very beginning. As I got older, I would regularly play with my father and other siblings. In High School and College, I played competitive tennis and did not play as much golf. I picked the game back up in my mid-twenties. My career in the branded footwear business allowed me to play a lot of client golf all over the world. In 2002 I started working in the golf industry as Director of Sales and Marketing at Pinehills Golf Club in Massachusetts, a 36-hole 5 star facility featuring a Reese Jones course and a Nicklaus design course.
What’s your idea of a perfect four ball?
My Father, Annika Sorenstam, Jack Nicklaus. It would be match play, men versus women.
What do you love the most about travelling?
Waking up in a destination that you have never been to before is like waking up on Christmas day as a child. The excitement and anticipation of seeing and experiencing things that you have never seen or done before, meeting new people and eating new food for the first time is an experience like none other.
What do you enjoy the most about hosting tours?
The most enjoyable thing will be meeting new people in a beautiful destination and sharing the experience of playing a ‘dream come true’ bucket list course. Sharing a once in a lifetime experience that will connect you with the guests for many years to come.
What do you do when you’re not hosting tours?
When I am not hosting tours you will find me on the golf course playing with friends and family, working out, doing yoga, enjoying the beach and swimming and boating in the beautiful cayman sea.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I feel like I am in the best ‘chapter’ of my incredible book of life. I live in Grand Cayman in the winter and in Boston, MA in the summer. My husband and I love to travel and have seen a lot of the world. We are both passionate boaters and this past summer we completed an 1800-mile, 97-day boat journey down the East Coast of the United States. We met so many incredible people and I was able to play on so many new golf courses. A healthy lifestyle and exercise are a big part of my day-to-day life. In addition to golf, I love to work out, do yoga several times a week and swim regularly in the ocean. One of my favorite things to do is to host family and friends on our boat to enjoy sunset cocktail rides. I love meeting new people and truly believe ‘strangers are just friends waiting to happen’.
Name: Laura Richards
Role:
Tour Host
Where do you live?
Northern Beaches, Sydney, Australia
Which Golf Club are you a member at?
Mona Vale Golf Club
Handicap
37
What is the best golf club you’ve ever played at?
The Empire Hotel/Brunei Country Club designed by Jack Nicklaus. I joined my husband in an early morning game while staying at the hotel. It seemed we were the only players on the course, the experience was surreal.
Which club is on your bucket list to play?
The Old Course at St Andrews Scotland – where the game originated and such history.
What do you love the most about travelling?
Being energized by meeting new people, being in different environments, experiencing new adventures, different cultures – a sense of discovery not just for myself but those around me. Experiencing the unexpected that remain so memorable and impact those around me as well as myself for the better.
What do you think are the most important attributes of a Tour Host?:
Being a good communicator, a good listener, warmth and compassion, a sense of humor, passion and enthusiasm and thinking on your feet.
What’s your golfing journey / how / when / why did you start?
I began to learn golf in 2018 when I was gifted a spot in a golf clinic at MVGC. There were 5 other ladies that joined the clinic and we are now all great friends and play a couple of times a week together.
What do you enjoy the most about hosting tours?
Spending time with like-minded people who love the game, love being out on a beautiful course and enjoying the company of fellow players. Importantly ensuring that all guests have a highly memorable, fun and thoroughly enjoyable experience and meet new friends along the way.
What do you do when you’re not hosting tours?
Manage small corporate incentives , play golf, get outdoors when ever I can.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I absolutely love spending time outdoors and being active, whether it’s playing golf, exploring new places, or just soaking in the fresh air. Being around people, having fun, and enjoying life are at the heart of what I do. I thrive on adventure and always look for new challenges to push myself. There’s something about the excitement of trying something new and making the most of every moment that truly energizes me.
Name: Clancy
Role:
CFO (Chief Fun Officer)
Where do you live?
With Mum & Dad
Which Golf Club are you a member at?
No golf club will let me join, because I am too good at chasing balls and bringing them back
Handicap
Bringing back all of the balls
What is the best golf club you’ve ever played at?
The one with the most bunkers!
Which club is on your bucket list to play?
The one with the most bunkers!
What do you enjoy the most about being Golf & Tours’ CFO (Chief Fun Officer)?
All of the pats and snuggles. I am told, I am the bestest girl.
What do you love the most about travelling?
All the new smells, and meeting all the new humans and pups.
What do you think are the most important attributes of a CFO (Chief Fun Officer)?
They need to make all of the humans smile. They like it when I roll on my back, with my feet in the air. They also like to chase me while I run around with their shoes in my mouth.
What do you do when you’re not working as the CFO (Chief Fun Officer)?
I sleep and do a lot of jobs, like bringing back sticks and barking at anything that gets close to my house. I also like to follow my humans anywhere they go. We are a pack. I am their leader.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am an Australian Blue Heeler, and am 4 years old. I have been the CFO at Golf & Tours since I was 8 weeks old. Initially I chewed through a lot of the computer cables, but now I prefer sticks. My most favourite thing in the world is making my humans happy. Lucky, that is easy. Every time they walk past me, they press their head against mine, and whisper “I love you Clancy”.
Testimonials for Clancy
… thank you so much for being the bestest dog in the world! Mum, Moss Vale, NSW
…I really appreciate how Clancy shares her sticks with me. Kita, Moss Vale Dog Park, NSW
…You’re my best friend. You run really fast. Charlie, Kiama NSW
