Golf Course Architect and founder of the British Association of Golf Course Constructors, Howard Swan, has paid tribute to Brian Pierson, who stepped down as the association’s chairman at its AGM at BTME in Harrogate.
Swan first approached Pierson while travelling to the Golf Industry Show in Anaheim in 1974 with the idea of an organisation to represent the golf course construction industry and drive up the quality of construction. He saw education and training as the foundations upon which to build a more professional industry committed to best practice, an organisation that could improve the standard of construction and the standing of constructors.
The BAGCC was born, Swan and Pierson were joined by other constructors and members of the trade representing the golf course construction industry in the UK, and membership became a hallmark of quality control.
“Vision without action is simply a daydream,” he said. “Brian’s energy and commitment to the BAGCC through the highs and lows of the past 40 years has been tireless and I thank him, personally and on behalf of the industry for all he has done.”
Mike Pomfret from Landline Containment Solutions will become the association’s Chairman with immediate effect.
The association has won the respect of the industry, with many of the finest golf course architects selecting its members for their projects.
Since its formation, members have carried out work for the Royal & Ancient, the English Golf Union, the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association, leading hotel chains and more than 1,000 private clients, working extensively in Great Britain, mainland Europe, North America and Asia.
The association’s membership criteria coupled with its Code of Practice ensures that clients receive personal and professional service to the highest standards through their construction project, with grow-in and long-term maintenance options always available.
British Association of Golf Course Constructors www.bagcc.org.uk