MEET THE TEAM JOB SATISFACTION
With a deep love for the land and sea , Golf Course
Superintendent Rey Tacsiat is living the dream at Hokuala
If you ’ re looking for Rey Tacsiat , chances are good you ’ ll find him either motoring around the Ocean Course at Hokuala in a golf cart or quietly casting a line at one of Kauai ’ s top fishing spots .
The Golf Course Superintendent at the Ocean Course has a great appreciation for the outdoors , and that passion melds seamlessly from his work life to his leisure time .
He ’ s been employed at Hokuala for 33 years and takes great pride in leading a team that cares just as much about the property as he does , putting in time and effort behind the scenes to ensure that every golfer has a memorable experience when they play the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course .
We caught up with Rey during a rare moment without a Stimpmeter or fishing pole in his hands to learn more about his life on and off the course …
How did you get into golf and agronomy ? I started as a grounds section
tender in the very early years with no knowledge about the game of golf or growing grass . Then I realized that I enjoyed waking up early and being outdoors . Within a short time , I got involved with all of the daily tasks at the property and took the initiative to learn as much as I could . I acquired knowledge about chemicals and how their strategic use plays a big part in agronomy . I got my chemical applicator license and took some at-home courses in turf management from Penn State University .
uuu What are your responsibilities ?
I am responsible for the overall functions of the golf course maintenance department , as well as establishing and executing our operating and capital budget . I schedule , implement and administer the day-to-day maintenance on the course as well as short- and long-term projects . I also make sure we have the tools and personnel to get the job done .
“ I love my morning routine , driving throughout the property , and working with our associates .”
– REY TACSIAT , Ocean Course at Hokuala Superintendent
What are three reasons golf courses must be aerated ? The process allows air to get into the soil beneath the greens . It also helps to relieve the compaction caused by all traffic and helps create a firm , smooth putting surface by controlling thatch and promoting healthy turf roots .
uuu Where do you like to go fishing ?
Anini Beach is my favorite spot , and I always try to catch Kala ( Bluespine Unicornfish ) to cook on the grill . uuu Favorite local restaurant ? I love
the Bull Shed , and usually enjoy seared Ahi .
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What ’ s your favorite hole on the course ? The 13th hole , because of the
ocean view and mountain in the background .
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What would you like people who have never visited the Ocean Course to know ? All the greens on the
back nine and most of the greens on the front nine have been recently renovated .
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What is one thing someone might be surprised to know about you ? I ’ m a very reserved and
low-key person .
Kawena Hokuala | May-June 2022