IGA Course Rating Volunteer: Jim Swartley

1 – Where are you originally from? If not from Idaho, what brought you here?
I moved to Idaho in 1958 when my parents moved to McCall while I was in the 8th grade. Other than education and the military, I have lived here ever since.

2 – What is/was your career occupation?
Physician, Ophthalmologist

3 – What is it about the game of golf that you love so much?
I enjoy the challenge of the course or your fellow competitor, and it involves being outside.

4 – What made you want to volunteer for the IGA? When did you start?
I was interested in how Course Rating was done and have since enjoyed the intellectual challenge that it involves. I began volunteering for the IGA in 2011.

5 – What do you hope to get out of volunteering for the IGA? What motivates you to keep coming back?
I don’t really expect to get anything out of volunteering. I keep coming back because I enjoy Course Rating and the people who I rate with.

6 – What has been your favorite memory from volunteering for the IGA?
There have been many trips we have made to do Course Ratings that are very special. However, rating the Yellowstone Club was probably the highlight.

7 – What would you say to someone who is thinking about volunteering?
It takes a special person to do Course Rating. You have to enjoy numbers and long days on the course, not always playing golf.

8 – What is your fondest memory on the golf course?
Winning low net, twice, in the Crane Creek Cup.

9 – When were you introduced to the sport? By who?
I first played a little in high school. I went out with friends.

10 – What is your home club? How often do you play?
Crane Creek Country Club (Boise). I average about three times a week.

11 – What's something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I worked as a smokejumper during my college summers.

12 – Who would be a part of your dream foursome to play a round of golf with?
Tiger Woods, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus

13 - What has been your favorite golf course that you have played?
Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club and Lodge (Orlando, FL)

14 – Describe your golf game in six words
Trying to improve.

15 – What's one item that you can’t live without?
Unfortunately, it seems like I can’t be without my phone.