Getting to Know 2025 CSGA President Jay Clifton

As we head into the new year, I am very thankful to be President of the CSGA, a great organization for Senior Golfers in California.  Administered by Vaughn Kezirian, we create two yearly tournaments for Senior Golfers from Scratch to Higher Handicaps. They’re great fun to be a part of!

I was born in Oakland and raised in Castro Valley, attended Hayward HS and University of California at Berkeley.  I later completed Caterpillar Tractor Company management training but decided sales was a better fit for me.  I also served in the U.S. Marine Corps–Semper Fi– where I was a Smokejumper in the U.S. Forest Service and sold Industrial Supplies all my career, eventually becoming a partner in an outstanding supply company.

I have a wonderful family. Treva, my wife, and two grown and successful kids!

I hope all of us Members have a wonderful 2025!!

How did you first get started with golf?

I was always some version of an athlete–runner, basketball player, baseball player, soccer player–but never a golfer until I played out in those sports.  I found golf to be challenging, something new every day, and not as taxing on the body as the others.  I learned golf from the Boys’ Champion of Glasgow Scotland in my early 20’s.  He taught me by using “whiffle balls” in my backyard!!

What influenced you to become more active in golf? 

I became active in golf administration at Las Positas Muni. I served on the Board of Directors there and ran a Junior Program and soon joined the NCGA as a Tournament Official.  At Castlewood Country Club, where I am a 35-year member, I have served on the Golf Committee and Handicap Committee over the years.  

What is your greatest golf memory or moment?

My fondest memory in golf was toting my clubs all over Great Britain in order to play St. Andrews.  Wonderful experience. 

What is your favorite course(s) and why?
 My favorite golf course is Pebble Beach Golf Links, need I say why!!  The ideal foursome would be Arnie, Lee and Jack. Three six-hole four-ball matches!!

What do you enjoy doing besides golf?

After golf, and after a nap, I like to work on home projects and in my yard!