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There were many speakers at the Ohio Turfgrass Foundation’s conference and trade show Dec. 6 through 8 in Columbus, Ohio. But none were more captivating and inspiring than Rulon Gardner, an American Greco-Roman style wrestler who won the gold medal in the 2000 Olympics, defeating a previously unbeaten Russian champion, and the bronze medal in the 2004 Olympics.
Growing up on a dairy farm in Afton, Wyo., as one of nine children, Gardner is the epitome of hard work and dedication – much like many superintendents I’ve met. He overcame many obstacles in life and achieved things, such as graduating from college, people told him he couldn’t do. Gardner follows seven guidelines to reach his true potential. They can be used to drive a person to accomplish much in life, both personally and professionally. They are:
1. Get back to basics.
2. Turn a bad situation into a positive one. Take negatives and use them as fuel to drive yourself. You need potential and ability to succeed.
3. Enlist other people to help you reach your potential.
4. Train hard every day. Give 100 percent.
5. Take care of business. Be focused. Believe, trust and have faith in yourself. Think, learn the rules, take a chance and don’t quit.
6. Aim high when you feel low.
7. Don’t rest on your laurels.
Think about these and keep them in mind this holiday season as you take time off, rest your body and mind, and prepare yourself for another year in the world of golf course management.
