Ernie Barbour, PGA Golf Professional

A golf professional for over 25 years, unfortunately Ernie Barbour lost his battle with cancer in November 2007. He will be greatly missed.
He began his career in Georgia working under 1990 PGA National Teacher of the Year, Charles Sorrell. He had received lessons from Jack Lumpkin and John Jacobs and in the past, Ernie has sought the help of Jim Flick, Ray Leach, Rick Rhoads, Jack Lumpkin, Larry O'Leary, and Hank Haney, the 1993 National PGA Teacher of the Year, to help him develop and refine his teaching skills. 

Ernie spent five years as Head Professional at Castlewood Country Club in Pleasanton (CA). It was there he coached Jean Zedlitz, former Amador High standout, UCLA team captain and current LPGA Tour Professional. Currently he is working with Brady Stockton, the former #2 nationally ranked collegiate player and member of the 1st Team All American from Arizona State University.

In August 1994, Ernie received international publicity by accompanying four Northern California junior golfers on a USA/Moscow Golf Exchange. This event was created by CourseCo and the U.S.G.A.'s Public Golf Committee. Twenty-six juniors were taught golf and etiquette in Russia. The American players stayed in the homes of the Russian players and returned the favor as the Russian players came to the U.S. to experience golf and Bay Area hospitality.

In 1996, Mark Soltau, San Francisco Examiner sportswriter, voted Ernie one of Northern California's "Top 10" instructors. Ernie also volunteers and works with boys and girls golf teams at California High School in San Ramon (CA). In addition to being a premier teaching professional, Ernie continues to volunteer his time on the NCPGA Membership Committee and is Co-Chairman of the Physically Challenged Committee. He regularly conducts clinics for individuals with disabilities in association with Guardian Rehabilitation Hospital in San Ramon, CA.

Now instructing at The Bridges Golf Club, he annually teaches over 2000 lessons, provides instruction to all levels of players through private or group lessons, and conducts corporate clinics, trips and outings in Las Vegas, Tucson, Phoenix, Kona, Cabo San Lucas, Canada, Ireland, and Scotland, as well as the Bay Area.

In the Spring of 2001, Ernie was placed on Golf Magazine's exclusive list of more than 400 outstanding golf professionals in the US and Canada. He was also chosen as the 1998 Northern California PGA Teacher of the Year. "Education is key," says Ernie. He has attended numerous PGA teaching seminars and participated in the PGA International Teaching Summit in New Orleans and "Teaching the Teacher" at Hank Haney Golf Ranch. Ernie's goal is "to have everyone, of every age and ability, feel welcome, have fun, improve and share a greater appreciation for the game of golf."

For further information on the Ernie Barbour Golf Academy clinics or schools, Executive Golf Outings, or to schedule a private lesson with Ernie Barbour call (925) 828-8226 or contact him via email.