Meet Dave Menary, fondly known as “Big Wave Dave.” The stories surrounding the origin of his nickname are many and Dave claimed the explanation was a long one. “I just tell people it’s because I make a big splash wherever I go.”

 

A big splash indeed! He described himself as the “court jester” during his professional career at Cobra Golf since he often dressed in outlandish costumes like Batman. He has special outfits for Halloween, Christmas, Easter, and St. Patrick’s Day, too. Dave also has a favorite club cover - a Bulldog. Originally it was made for his high school Bulldogs team, but now he uses it to honor his late son, a Redlands (CA) University Bulldog. 

 

Dave began his golfing career at age seven at Peacock Gap Golf and Country Club in San Rafael, California. At first, he played with his dad, but eventually found his “tribe." They rode their stingray bikes to the greens and played from dawn till dusk. One day he played 67 holes, but they usually “only” played 36 holes.

 

After all that practice, Dave now hits the ball “a country mile,” as we used to say. He competed in the National Long Drive Championship and qualified for the finals every year from ‘87-‘90 finishing fourth in 1987. In 1988, he set a record for the longest drive while in the Bahamas—besting his competition by almost eight yards. Despite his long drives, Dave feels his strength is putting. Fortunately, he’s had little need to test his skills since he has made three holes-in-one over the years, his first at 15.

 

After retirement, Dave and his family moved into Turnberry a year and a half ago to be close to the beach. Locally, Dave’s favorite course is Burnt Pine, where he plays often. Internationally, Western Gailes in Scotland is his first choice. He met a Scottish caddy there who was not only competent but entertaining. They hit it off so well, the caddy showed up to caddy for Dave at every course he played in the country.

 

You can find Big Wave Dave at Raven and Baytowne courses where he is a Tee Host explaining details to visitors and newcomers.

 

Big Wave Dave’s advice to beginners:

“Swing as hard as you can. You can always back off on your power once you’ve found it.”

 

Dave has played with Michael Jordan and Tom Watson.