As a lover of red wine and Italian food, Darryl Sando is happy with his new home town. Photos: Oliver Jacques.
Golf pro Darryl Sando has worked at some of the best courses in Canada, South Africa, England and Sydney. But he now calls Griffith home.
The 51-year-old began his role as director of Griffith Golf Club in July. He’ll run the pro shop, clinics and competitions, and give private lessons.
Mr Sando grew up in Penrith and has been a golf pro since he was 18. One of his main goals is to increase the number of women who play the sport in this town and he plans to run a women’s clinic in spring.
Region caught up with him to find out why he chose Griffith, why you should take up his sport, his career highlights, his most amusing moment and his goals with his new club.
You’ve worked in South Africa, England and Canada. Why have you now chosen Griffith?
I’ve been coming out here for the past eight years for the annual pro-am. I always loved it here, so I jumped at the chance to apply for the job when it came up. We always came here because I loved the food and wine. I’ve already been to every Italian restaurant in town.
How does the course in Griffith compare with others at which you have worked?
The golf course here is on par conditions-wise with the best courses in Sydney. All the golf pros rave about it; the town is lucky to have it. The prices are much cheaper than in Sydney. It’s $30 for a non-member to play as many holes as you want, which is a great price.
What’s the best thing about golf as a sport?
It’s one of the only games you can play later in life. It’s good exercise, but it’s also great for your mental health. When I was in Sydney, I taught a guy who was 94. You are never too old.
Mr Sando says Griffith’s course rivals the best he’s seen.
What’s the one attribute you need to succeed?
Golf is all about concentration. If you’ve got good concentration, you can succeed at the sport.
What’s the funniest thing you’ve ever seen on a golf course?
A guy drive his golf buggy into a dam in South Africa. They all live in estates there for security, and they drive from the house to the course in the buggy. They have a few beers and drive home. I saw a buggy submerged in the water one morning.
What’s golf like in Canada? Do they play when it’s freezing?
I was in Vancouver, where they play all year round. They can play when the course is covered in snow, but not during frost and ice as that can damage the course.
Who are some of the golfers you most admire?
American professional Ben Hogan and Canadian Moe Norman. In South Africa, I taught Sean Norris, who was a top-100 player.
What are your goals here in Griffith?
We are starting a ladies’ golf clinic in September and we’d really encourage women to give it a go. We’re also trying to grow junior golf. I’d welcome anyone to come down to the course and give the sport a try.
To learn more about Griffith Golf Club clinics and tournaments, contact Darryl Sando on 0431 429 927.
