This week’s Senior Spotlight is on the quiet yet hilarious, Christopher Gardner, who might not always be heard but can always be seen. He stands out in a crowd, both literally, because of his height, and theoretically, because of his ongoing humor. You can usually find Chris doing one of two things: studying or playing golf. He dedicates his time to schoolwork, showing his diligence and good work ethic. He even says, “I decided to not join a club this year to devote all of my time to studying in flex.” His senior year schedule is rigorous yet fun; he takes a variety of classes including AP Statistics, AP Biology, AP Psychology, Honors English, Advanced Functions & Models, and American Cultures.

Chris demonstrates classiness and leadership both on and off the golf course. He loves golf with all of his heart. He talks about a memorable tournament, saying, “I qualified for the Club Championship by winning the junior one and ended up in first after the first day. My dad ended up beating me on the second day, but it was a cool experience.” He has won the Benvenue Junior Club Championship four times! He shows a dedication to golf like no other.

Paul Larimer, a close friend of Chris’s, comments on him… “If you are blessed to have had the pleasure of meeting the 6’4 animal also known as Christopher Gardner, then it most likely was an experience you will never forget. Let me tell you a little about my best friend, Chris. August 24, 2010: a new kid rolls up to RMA, Chris, sporting a Lil Wayne shirt, the guy was honestly a freak. Fast forward 3 years, and we both joined the RMA golf team. This is where we really began to bond. We have been raiding the links almost every day after school for years. Ole Boy Chris has always been taking money out of my pockets like it’s Christmas during our intense golf bets. He is raw on the links, sporting this cool and calm demeanor that best resembles a lion stalking an antelope on the African sahara. Just like on the great green fields of fun, he is successful and competitive in the classroom also. He is always striving to do better than the person in that wooden desk beside him. So if you ever see this tall, lusciously locked creature roaming the halls of RMA, savor the moment as you are witnessing greatness.”

“Christopher loves to get buckets. He gets buckets all the time. He attempts to get buckets every day of his life. Chris lives for buckets.” -Chuck Roberson

“I have known Chris since fourth grade, and now we are distantly related through marriage! He is the definition of a nice guy. He is always sweet and respectful, but he also is not afraid to have a funny comment here and there! He is often perceived as quiet and reserved, but Christopher is a great friend and athlete. He will go far!” -Haven Ross

“As the famous Bob Ross once stated, ‘Bend the brush, make those little leaves and branches just pop right out at you, there he comes.’ Every time I hear this quote I can only think about Christopher Tyler Gardner Jr. The reason behind this poetry is due to the fact that every time Chris walks in the hallway he stands out amongst the crowd. Like the branches of Bob Ross’s trees over the little leaves, you can only think to yourself, ‘there he comes.’ ” -Thorne Pruden

To learn more about Chris, read the interview below!

1. How many years have you been at RMA?  8 years
2. What has been your favorite class so far?  I’d have to say Computers with Mrs. Davis.
3. Who taught you how to play golf? I learned to play golf from my Dad and our local club pro Ryan Keeter. It was difficult starting out because I’m left-handed, and the people who taught me to play golf were right-handed.
4. What colleges are you applying to, and what is your first choice?  I’m applying to Sewanee, Wofford, Furman, and Hampden-Sydney. Sewanee is my first choice.
5. Who is your favorite person to play golf with? Ethan Diamadi
6. What’s your favorite thing about golf?  3 putting for par
7. Do you have a favorite memory from a time you were playing golf?  Making my first hole in one on a par 5 was truly special.
8. What is one thing you cannot live without?  Arby’s
9. Who is your role model?  Dustin Johnson, Tiger Woods, and Steven Bowditch all come to mind. They demonstrate integrity on and off the golf course.
10. Do you have any work experiences?  I’ve picked up pine cones in the backyard once or twice.
11. Currently, what is your favorite song?  “Turn Down for What” by Lil Jon and DJ Snake
12. What do you want to be when you grow up?  An NBA player
13. If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be?  I would either be posted up in a deer stand or skeet shooting at Rose Hill Plantation.
14. What awards/honors have you received?  Received Leadership Award in the 3rd grade and A Honor Roll in 11th grade.