On Superintendents Day, we honor the turf professionals whose dedication keeps Tunica National in championship condition. From the first cut of the fairways to the smooth roll of the greens, their hard work makes every round possible.
Among them is someone who has quietly set the standard for more than two decades—Eric “Big Buddy” Edwards, our trusted mechanic. Together with the entire turf staff, his efforts ensure every player enjoys the best course conditions in the Delta.
For over 20 years, Big Buddy has been the steady hand behind the machines that keep Tunica National in top playing condition. A native of Sarah, Mississippi, he has built his career on precision and care, making sure every mower, reel, and piece of equipment performs at its best. His skill extends beyond the course as well—he’s a lifelong fan of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, where the same craftsmanship that sharpens blades and tunes engines keeps bikes running smoothly.
His love for mechanics began early. Growing up, he learned the trade from his grandfather while working on old cars and trucks. His first big project—a 1965 Chevrolet pickup—sparked a lifelong passion for engines. Today, a 1926 Model T wood-spoke rim hangs in his work station. To most, it looks like a relic from another era, but to Eric it symbolizes the history of mechanics and the progress that has shaped his craft.
Now, with a grandson already showing an interest in vehicles, Big Buddy is excited to pass along the knowledge and skills that have guided his life. For him, mechanics is more than fixing machines—it’s about sharing a trade, honoring tradition, and building a legacy. As he likes to say, “If it were easy, everyone would do it.”
What sets Big Buddy apart isn’t just his expertise—it’s his dedication. Golfers may not see him at work, but they experience his impact every time they tee it up: the sharp stripes on the fairways, the smooth roll of the greens, the clean, uniform cut of the rough. These details may seem small, but they’re the difference between good conditions and great ones. Over the years, Big Buddy has become more than just the mechanic of Tunica National—he’s family. His pride and craftsmanship shape every round played here.
That’s why, on Superintendents Day, we celebrate Eric “Big Buddy” Edwards for the passion and dedication that make Tunica National a true Mississippi Delta gem. So the next time you admire the fairways or sink a putt on a flawless green, remember the man behind the machines: Big Buddy—our mechanic, our craftsman, and our cornerstone.
