Hi! My name is Xiaobin Zhang. As I get ready to retire at 70 years old, it seems like the right time to play more golf! Seven years ago, myself and a few friends bought about 40 acres on Whidbey Island for summer vacations. My wife, Fiona, and I love Whidbey and the big green trees. Nature on Whidbey is beautiful. I have two daughters: Jia is in New York, and Diane is in Hong Kong. I also have three grandchildren: Sidney, Preston, and Logan.     

I joined UBGCC, of course, to play more golf (although, I am no golfaholic … yet), but I also joined knowing that the Club will give me more opportunities to meet people.  

I am looking forward to the day when all of us can gather for one big party at UBGCC!  

Pictured above is Mckenna and her siblings Axel and Annika

This month the House & Social Committee turns its spotlight on Greenskeeper McKenna Kelley. For our non-golfing members, a greenskeeper is responsible for the maintenance of the Golf Course, not just the greens but also the fairways and outdoor areas immediately surrounding the Clubhouse.  

During most of the year, McKenna’s workday starts at 5:50 AM. However, from early May through September, her day begins at 5:00 o-dark with clearing, mowing, prepping, and ensuring that the course will be in the best possible playing condition. She finishes up around 1:00 in the afternoon when she turns her attention to her other outdoor loves, which are many. Take your pick: horseback riding, tennis, pickle ball, sailing, and hiking.  

McKenna, while not a native of Whidbey Island, is a 2020 graduate of South Whidbey High School, having moved here as a child with her family. She started her working life at the Freeland Cafe where her duties ran the entire gamut of food service activities. But, and it’s a big but, McKenna decided that the freedom and fresh air of working outside was what she really preferred. Her desires meshed completely with the opportunities offered by the Club. 

McKenna’s supervisor, Blane Hezel, says that she is absolutely in her element being outdoors in all kinds of weather. Her work is top notch and of the highest quality. She cheerfully undertakes any task, assigned or otherwise. McKenna has a stellar attitude, and she has the demonstrated ability to work harmoniously both with the other 8 full-time year-round crew and, during the Summer months, when the team increases to 15. 

Asked if she had any advice for Club members, McKenna replied, “It’s simple, just go out and enjoy the course. It’s beautiful and a great place to play golf.”