Barry Madore has been the club manager at Presque Isle Country Club since 1993. In addition to managing the golf course, he's also been responsible for private instructions, club fitting, and overseeing the junior golf program as its director.

But after 28 years at the helm of PICC, Barry is ready to retire and hand the reins of the club over to his son, Matthew, who Big Country 96.9 recently had the chance to sit down with and talk about what people can expect from PICC in 2021.

You can check out our full conversation with him below:

Big Country: Elephant in the room. Barry Madore, your father, is retiring after 28 years.

Matthew Madore: Yes. I’m excited for him to stop watching people enjoy the game and get out himself and tee it up. For years he was forced to watch everybody enjoy the summer playing the game he grew to love. Now it’s time for him to enjoy it himself!

Congratulations on accepting the position of Director of Golf at Presque Isle Country Club. What can we expect in 2021?

Thank you! It’s not your traditional “handing down of the business” but it certainly has that feel which makes it that much more special and exciting! I’m bringing over 20 years of experience in the golf industry and am looking forward to integrating some of what I’ve seen work at other courses. That being said, you’ll still see a lot of the old school mentality that my father has perfected over the years.

Aroostook County is fortunate to have some great golf courses in arm’s reach. What do you believe sets Presque Isle Country Club apart from the rest?

I’d be remiss if I didn’t say the Spudland Open. Year after year, it continues to grow and is currently the largest single course amateur tournament in New England. Daily play wise we have everything to keep you out of the house for the day! An 18-hole championship course that can challenge any and all abilities. We have a fantastic restaurant, The Riverview, that’s great for after a round of golf or bringing your family out to have a nice relaxing dinner. Lastly, we have a fully stocked pro shop. Whether you just need some balls or need the works, we’ve got everything you need.

You mention the restaurant. I’ve heard in passing some great things about it but tell me more… can anyone dine in? Do you offer take out? What’s the go to menu item?

Dine in, take out, sit on the deck, you name it. A full functioning restaurant has been a staple for years. This year we are trying something new – we’ve rebranded it as The Riverview. We are working hard to get the message out that this restaurant is open to everyone, you do not need to be a member to enjoy it! Aroostook County is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been, I’m grateful to call it home. Our huge deck with outdoor dining gives you the opportunity to enjoy our short summers and the great views. We have great food, ice cold drinks, and friendly staff. Everything is great. The go to for me is the patty melt.

Outdoor activity saw an increase last year given the pandemic. For someone looking to find a new hobby or activity, why golf?

It’s the ultimate pandemic sport. If you don’t want to be within 6 feet of someone you don’t have to. Hopefully we are moving past the pandemic but that doesn’t mean we don’t want people to stop giving golf a chance. It’s something you literally can do for the rest of your life, it’s a great change of pace to your usual routine. I invite everyone to give it a shot!

Thanks for your time, Matthew. Anything else you want to add?

I’m looking forward to seeing old friends. I grew up at this place and I’m excited to call it home again. I’m excited to make new friends as well. I want nothing more than to carry on my father’s legacy and build on the growth of Presque Isle Country Club that he’s worked so hard on during his career. I’m really excited to see him tee it up this year and enjoy Presque Isle Country Club in a way that he’s neglected for a few years now.

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