People. Work Hard. Know Why.
Bill Barbour, has been around golf his entire life. His father was the head PGA golf professional at Sleepy Hollow Golf Course (formerly Sleepy Hollow Country Club until 1962) in Brecksville, Ohio from 1939-1974. Bill worked under his father’s guidance for many years. During that time, he learned the most important lessons about life and running a successful business. In 1976, Bill left Brecksville with a dream of owning and operating an 18-hole golf course. His journey led him to Mount Vernon to purchase Irish Hills, a 9-hole golf course at the time. Bill set out to build the course on the three most important lessons his father taught him:
- People. Focus on and invest in people. They are the most important part of life. Greet everyone who walks through the door with a smile, get to know them, and serve them well.
- Work Hard. Anything worthwhile doesn’t come easy in life, the same is true in business. It takes time, dedication, and the willingness to put in the extra effort.
- Know Why. Not only do you have to love what you do, but know why you do it. We love golf and the community that it builds.
We strive to find ways to make your golf more fun at Irish Hills. One of those ways is by encouraging golfers to Tee it Forward.
Humble beginnings, hard work, long hours, and steep learning curves were the new normal for Bill. With the help from close friends, and applying the wisdom his father taught him, the business started to grow. In 1986, after ten years of hard work and building up the business, he had the opportunity to make Irish Hills into the 18-hole course it is today. After countless hours of hard work, and friends who generously donated their time, the back 9 holes were completed.
Bill, like his father, has a son that has a son that will be following in his footsteps. It has been the joy of his life teaching his son Billy the same principles his father taught him. Over then last couple of years Bill has mentored Billy as has taken over the daily operations at Irish Hills. A strong foundation has been established over two generations of golf professionals. We promise to continue focusing on serving people, working hard, and staying true to the values that make Irish Hills a better place to play.
In 2014 Bill celebrated 40 years of being a PGA Professional! Stop in anytime to chat with him, he always has a joke or story to tell. You’ll leave with a smile and most likely a new tip to help your game.
Thank you for being part of our story!