Joel Simmons sits down with PJ Ringenberger, Competitions Agronomist for the PGA TOUR, at Lehigh Country Club during the Jefferson Lehigh Valley Classic for a fascinating look behind the scenes of professional tournament golf.
What does it take to prepare a golf course for a PGA TOUR Champions event? PJ explains how months of planning, agronomic expertise, staffing coordination, and daily course preparation come together to deliver championship conditions. From managing green speeds and navigating unpredictable weather to coordinating more than 60 crew members and volunteers, the details go far beyond turf management.
PJ also shares his journey from golf course superintendent to PGA TOUR agronomist, including his experiences at some of the world’s finest courses and the devastating California wildfires that changed his life.
The conversation explores the challenges of maintaining historic golf courses, the importance of building relationships with superintendents, and why sharing knowledge continues to elevate the turf industry.