This issue is all about Loving Local! We are proud to represent so many local businesses and amazing Lake Murray residents. Keep reading to meet South Carolina Golf Association Player of the Year, and Pelion native, Sam Jackson.
Lake Murray Lifestyle: Hi Sam! We are so honored to get to know you and share about your life and golf journey with our readers! Where are you from and what is your home course?
Sam Jackson: I grew up on a family farm in Pelion. My home course is Country Club of Lexington.
Lake Murray Lifestyle: Speaking of Lexington Country Club, we hear that you are the Reigning Champion! Tell us more about that.
Sam Jackson: Country Club of Lexington is a great club that is super competitive. I am proud to have won the Club Championship in 2016 and 2021. We have a number of guys that have had a lot of success in South Carolina Golf Association (SCGA) events. They make it a ton of fun to go out and prepare for events.
Lake Murray Lifestyle: For those that do not know, please tell us more about SCGA and Player of the Year! Congratulations to you for earning that title!
Sam Jackson: The SCGA Player of the Year is a points race each year based on performance in state and national amateur events. I am very fortunate to have my name associated with so many great past champions. It is very humbling and makes me want to continue to get better each and every year.
Lake Murray Lifestyle: What an amazing accomplishment! Besides Country Club of Lexington, what are some of your favorite courses to play?
Sam Jackson: I have been fortunate enough to play Augusta National and Pebble Beach, so those are my favorite two courses I have played. My favorite course around home to play is Palmetto Golf Club. It is a special place and provides a great challenge for all levels of players.
Lake Murray Lifestyle: Who is one of your favorite professional golfers, and why?
Sam Jackson: Other than the obvious (Tiger Woods, because of course, he is Tiger Woods), I really like Rory McIlroy. He is fun to watch and I love how honest he is in press conferences.
Lake Murray Lifestyle: What advice do you have for anyone interested in taking up golf?
Sam Jackson: For anyone getting started in the game, I would say enjoy the practice and keep a good attitude. Golf can take you to some amazing places, and will allow you to meet some great people.
Lake Murray Lifestyle: What do you do when you are not playing golf?
Sam Jackson: I love my job with Pella Windows & Doors, and I play Pickleball usually once or twice a week with a group of friends.
Lake Murray Lifestyle: What lies ahead for you in golf? What are your goals for the future?
Sam Jackson: I am excited to play in some new events this upcoming year and get back out with the guys on the SCGA. I would love to qualify for another USGA and contend at the state amateur.
Thank you, Sam, for taking the time to speak with us today! We wish you the best in all of your future endeavors! If you find yourself interested in golf, we encourage you to take Sam’s advice and get out there and enjoy the game! The Lake Murray area has several beautiful and challenging courses including the Country Club of Lexington.
Golf can take you to some amazing places, and will allow you to meet some great people.