The Canadian PGA, one of the PGAs of Europe’s newer members, has celebrated its Centenary and its status as the second oldest PGA in the world, next to the PGA of GB&I, with an appropriate agenda of events at the Royal Ottawa Golf Club
As the PGAC proudly announced when today’s golf professionals and industry leaders convened at the site of the organisation’s formation: “ One-hundred years ago the Canadian PGA was formed by a small, dedicated and inspired group of the country’s leading golf professionals following the playing of the Canadian Open.
“From its humble origins at Royal Ottawa to the current day, where over 3,700 golf professionals work across the country, the Canadian PGA has played an integral role in developing and growing the game here…” said Canadian PGA Chief Executive Officer Gary Bernard.
“This celebration has recognised our association’s contribution to golf not only over the past 100 years, but also has highlighted the important role the Canadian PGA will play over the next century.”
A highlight of the celebration was a historical display featured at the Hilton Lac-Leamy inGatineau, Que. The display featured information on the early history of the association and its founders, historical photos and equipment while also detailing its many milestones.
Among the many tributes was one from Canada’s neighbours, the PGA of America. “We congratulate our friends…as they celebrate their Centennial with a tribute that honours their grand and illustrious history,” said CEO Joe Steranka. “We are delighted that the Canadian PGA has stood jointly with The PGA at the forefront of growing the game and business of golf, serving as international partners in teaching and promoting our great game to enthusiasts worldwide.”
The Centennial, (sponsored by Mercedes Benz), took in two days of celebrations with professionals from across the country and elsewhere participating in golf tournaments at Royal Ottawa Golf Club and Rivermead Golf Club.
As the PGA of Canada’s website reports: “More than 350 professionals, golf business leaders, and Canadian PGA partners took to the links on the second day of centennial celebrations, playing both Rivermead, as well as Royal Ottawa. Groups raved about Royal Ottawa, the historic course where 17 club professionals formed the Canadian PGA in July, 1911.
“More than 400 people are coming to the gala which is incredible, especially at the height of the Canadian golf season,” says Glenn Cundari, President of the Canadian PGA. “That shows the incredible commitment that people have to this organisation. Many of the most influential people in the golf industry have come to join the celebrations, which is really a sign of the links we have to other organisations around the world.”
Canadian PGA www.cpga.com