The Golf Club Managers’ Association (GCMA) has announced Gary Pearce, Manager of Fulford Golf Club in York, as the 2009 Manager of the Year.

The award, which has running for five years, recognises exceptional contribution to the success of a golf club and is open to any of the GCMA’s 1800 plus members working in golf clubs.

This year, the competition attracted over 50 entries, from which six finalists were selected, with GCMA representatives visiting each of them in their club.

Pearce had to overcome a number of obstacles at Fulford, such as the out-dated clubhouse, catering and equipment behind the scenes.

Following 36 remodelled tees, the construction of new Championship tees, a clubhouse face-lift and the installation of a new computer network, Fulford is now well and truly a part of the 21st Century.

Paul Napier, of Clandon Regis Golf Club near Guildford, was runner-up, and was recognised for his help in making the club more accessible to younger players.

GCMA Chief Executive Keith Lloyd praised all the finalists on their achievements in very difficult circumstances, especially with so many golfers deciding to play ‘nomadic’ golf rather than join a club.

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