by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
It’s not uncommon for City Hall’s big hitters to discuss government and policy, but on June 1, that kind of talk will be out of bounds when the City Council and Mayor’s Office tee off in the “Anything But Politics” golf tournament at the city-owned Bent Creek course.
Organized by Council member Daniel Davis, the contest will pit some of City Hall’s most seasoned golfers against those who are admittedly, well, a bit more green.
“Honestly, I’m happy to bogey on most courses, but it really isn’t about that,” Davis said. “It’s really more about getting outside and enjoying a beautiful Jacksonville day when we don’t have to talk about what’s going on with the government.
“A lot of times when we see each other, that’s all we have time for.”
But separating the masters from the minors is what most are interested in talking about.
Like Davis, Council member Ronnie Fussell remains a bit modest when talking up his golf game.
“Oh, I’m okay,” Fussell said. “I probably have about a 16-18 handicap, which isn’t too bad.”
Some scoff at Fussell’s claim that he’s only fair while out on the fairway, though he remains firm.
“No, I’ve never had a lesson. I just play to have a good time,” he said. “But for a little guy, I can hit the ball long.”
Others reportedly matching Fussell’s skill level are Mayor’s Office staffers Paul Crawford and Trey Byrd.
Byrd said he usually shoots about a 96. Crawford, he said, is only slightly better.
“But not by much,” he said.
Crawford played coy at first, but eventually copped to consistently finishing one stroke ahead of Byrd.
“I’m not an expert,” he said. “But if I ever play in a tournament for money, maybe I’ll see if I can improve my game. Otherwise I’ll play with an even bigger handicap so I can beat all my friends.”
But during next week’s challenge, Crawford said the ones to beat will likely be Mayor’s Office lobbyist Brad Thoburn and
Council aide Matt Jackson.
“They’re both pretty good,” Crawford said. “I know they both play a lot.”
Thoburn, who will forever be known for besting pro golfer David Duval when the pair were in high school, is said to carry a handicap much lower than any casual golfer.
Jackson said he carries an eight handicap.
“I’m looking forward to getting out there,” he said. “It should be interesting.”
Others participating next week include Council members Mia Jones and Richard Clark. Ironically Lad Daniels, a former chair
of The Players Championship, is not playing. Daniels has been heard saying he hasn’t played
in years.