From his favorite holes to how best to score, Jay Smith, the popular GM at Prestwick Country Club, provides an insider’s perspective on one of Myrtle Beach’s most popular layouts. Enjoy our conversation with the man who knows Prestwick better than anyone

What is your favorite hole at Prestwick Country Club and why

My favorite hole is #9 (pictured right) because it is a wonderful looking hole when standing on the tee with a lake the entire length of the hole on the left side as well as a great view of the clubhouse and hole #18. It is a risk/reward par 5. You can go for it in 2 shots but if you do not end up on the green it is going to be rough saving par. Lots of obstacles around the green including 12-foot-deep bunkers.

What is one thing about Prestwick Country Club that will surprise people?

Prestwick got its name from Prestwick in Scotland as must people know but what they do not know is that the ownership of Prestwick in Myrtle Beach  along with architects Pete and PB Dye made the trip over to Scotland  to ask permission to name their course in Myrtle Beach, Prestwick.

Best advice for a good round at Prestwick

Prestwick is a challenging golf course so I would advise our guests to make sure they pick the correct set of tees with the correct yardage to match their game to play from so they have an enjoyable experience.

Other than Prestwick Country Club, what is your favorite Myrtle Beach-area course and why?

Tidewater-it is a challenging, beautiful, and fun course to play that has always looked good to me and fits my game.

What is the biggest misconception people have about the golf industry?

That if you work at a golf course you play golf all the time. This is far from the truth. Most that work at courses play less than anyone.

What is your best round ever and where was it?

66 at Blackmoor Golf Club in Murrells Inlet.

Quick advice on how someone can improve their golf game

Work on their short game-chipping and putting. Over half of most players strokes are spent around the greens.

Favorite Restaurant in Myrtle Beach

Angelo’s Steak and Pasta

If I wasn’t a Golf Professional I would be a…

Sales Rep for a Golf related Industry

The one course I haven’t played but have always wanted to is…..

Augusta National

Click Here to View Tee Time Pricing or to Book Prestwick Country Club

(Prestwick Country Club golf course photos from our Instagram account @myrtlebeachgolftrips)