Lyonel Doherty, Times Chronicle
Three golfers from Fairview Mountain Golf Club in Oliver have made the top 100 list in the province.
Brian McDonald, Rob Tadey, and Brad Elliott were named as top golf professionals in 2022 by the PGA of BC.
The order acknowledges PGA of BC professionals who make outstanding contributions to the association, their communities, the province’s golf industry, and themselves.
The association acknowledges that McDonald topped the 2022 PDP (Professional Development Program) Order of Merit for a second consecutive year, becoming the first two-time winner of the program.
McDonald amassed 109 points over the course of the year, topping the year’s standings by 11 points.
Tadey, Fairview Mountain Golf Club Head Professional, finished in a tie for third place at 97 points, just a single point behind the runner-up.
McDonald told the Times Chronicle that it was nice to receive the honour.
“We pride ourselves on being active PGA of BC members here at Fairview Mountain; we strive to make the game more enjoyable for our members and guests.”
McDonald said the recognition aids clubs when looking to hire golf professionals as they can measure the commitment of individuals in their field.
“When I looked at the list last year of past winners, I noticed that no one had ever gone back-to-back since the PDP’s inception, so I actually used that as a big part of my motivation for the season and my planned participation in events,” said McDonald.
“I have always prided myself on being an active PGA of BC member because it keeps you connected to what is going on within the industry and allows you to meet so many like-minded PGA members along the way.”
McDonald acknowledged that his efforts to top the standings in succession required immense commitment to himself through not only events such as education and tournaments, but also in the many ways a PGA professional can give back to their community through volunteerism.
Finding ways to invest in yourself and self-motivation to learn is an endless task and McDonald acknowledges that his peers pushing him through the year-long standings helped drive him.
“I think the moment you stop paying attention to opportunities to grow within your industry it’s the start of your decline,” said McDonald.
The executive professional said he is now hoping for an early spring and another busy season at the club.
“It’s been nice to see how golf has resurged since COVID 19 and I’m hoping that momentum continues.”
What’s new?
McDonald said they are currently installing a new irrigation system which will enhance the course’s playability and overall aesthetics.
He noted that Fairview is continuing its indoor winter golf program, which is “rare” among clubs in the area.
“It’s great for those looking to play a round of golf on our high-tech simulator and/or those looking to practise to see improvement in their game . . . a nice way to break up the winter blues.”
