As we get started, can you tell me a little about Chalk Mountain Golf Course.
Joel: Well, Chalk Mountain Golf Course opened its course in 1980. So, it’s been around in our community for about thirty-nine years. It’s an amazing place right here in our community! That’s the entire reason it was founded, to be a community golf course You can really feel that the moment you step onto the course.
Can you elaborate more on that community feeling?
Joel: Coming to golf here is welcoming. When you arrive here and pick up a golf club it’s like coming home. Everyone from the staff to your fellow golfers are friendly. This is a great place to meet great people. We have customers coming from Avila, Paso Robles, Templeton, and of course Atascadero to play a game of golf. This community and inclusive atmosphere makes this place unique.
We’re also neighbors with a community park called, Heilmann Park. People can come to the park with their dogs or play tennis in the courts, as well as bring their children to the play equipment. Having the park right next door only adds to the community feel I mentioned earlier. We’re pretty lucky to have all these community amenities right next door.
How can people get plugged into the Chalk Mountain Golf Course community?
Joel: There are various clubs that you can join. We have a women’s, men’s, and senior club. There are also events going on almost every day that you can participate in. We’re open from dawn till dusk, seven days a week, three hundred and sixty-five days a year. So there’s plenty of time to get involved if you haven’t already.
So, how did you get started here?
Joel: Believe it or not, my first job here was washing golf carts while I was attending CalPoly. That’s when I fell in love with this place and with golf. There’s nothing quite like the competition in golf. You can be competitive with others and with yourself, always improving. However, the competitive edge never takes away from the spirit of camaraderie you develop with other golfers out here. After I spent some time washing carts, I decided to go into the golf business full-time. I became a manager here then later the owner. Now I oversee both this golf course and the Morro Bay Golf Course. This isn’t just a job to me; it’s a calling.
To wrap up, what’s your favorite thing about Atascadero?
Joel: Hands down the people, I know that might be a typical answer, but it doesn’t make it any less true. I was born and raised in this community. You won’t find a better group of people here.
Chalk Mountain Golf Course
(805) 466-8848
Website: chalkmountaingolf.com
Facebook: @ChalkMountainGolf
