Randy Tupper gets choked up when he talks about his memories of Clear Creek Golf Course.

It has nothing to do with memorable rounds or great shots. The course pro has barely even played the sport the last two years because of back surgery. Some of it comes from the overhaul of the course that is just beginning, but more stems from the friends he’ll soon be leaving behind.

Tupper is stepping down from the job he has held for 14 years to become the pro at the Refuge in Flowood. He will take over there on March 1.

Tupper said a number of factors, including being closer to family members and the chance to work at a top-notch facility, lured him away from Warren County.

“Ultimately, this is a better opportunity for me. The Refuge is ranked the number one public facility in the state,” Tupper said. “Everything there is what we aspire to be here. It moves me closer to my family and I’m working with the same people I’ve worked with here.”

Under Tupper’s guidance, Clear Creek has made strides since he took over in 1991. From new administrative procedures that helped the course turn a profit to an overhaul of the course itself, he has tried to transform it into a top-notch facility that appeals to average golfers while still challenging the more skilled players.

The biggest change was the recent renovation of Clear Creek’s first nine holes. They were completely redone with modern golf course construction techniques – a big change from when the course was built in 1979 with earthmoving equipment.

The renovation is part of a master plan adopted in 1996 that eventually will include the reconstruction of the back nine. The second half of the project is ongoing, with environmental studies, archaeological digs and funding all needing to be sorted out before actual construction can begin.

“I’m hoping the renovations here will be proven to be a step in the right direction,” Tupper said. “I’m sorry I’m leaving in the middle of it, but I’m proud I got it started.”

While he won’t see the fruits of his labor on a day-to-day basis, Tupper promised he won’t completely disappear from Clear Creek. He plans to keep his home in Warren County and will help the course’s staff through the transition to a new pro.

“I could be here at times if they need me,” Tupper said. “Whatever I can do to ensure the success of this facility I will do, because it’s like a child to me.”

Jimmy Harrison, president of the Warren County Parks and Recreation Commission that oversees Clear Creek, wasn’t sure how often Tupper’s services would be called on. Harrison said the search for a new pro would begin soon, but no firm timetable has been set.

“We’re going to try to fill it with somebody with some experience. We’re not going to put just anybody out there,” Harrison said. “Randy’s done a great job in the years he’s been out there.”