2014 was a visionary year for the European Golf Course Owners Association with the successful launch of the VISION 2020 project at the 2014 European Golf Business Conference in Barcelona. At the event the EGCOA presented a number of awards to industry leaders who continue to provide vision & direction for the future of the golf industry.
EGCOA Industry Award – The TORO Company
The annual Industry award was presented to the TORO Company in acknowledgement of their ongoing support not only to the EGCOA but the European golf industry as a whole. ‘’2014 was a very special year for TORO, one in which they celebrate a century of innovation. TORO’S commitment to innovation has been at the heart of their success, and given them the market leadership they enjoy today. ‘’ Said Alexander Baron von Spoercken, EGCOA President. He added ‘’ We are looking forward to working together with our partners TORO in the coming years in creating a sustainable and profitable future for EGCOA members across Europe.’’
EGCOA Award – PGAs of Europe
The PGA’s of Europe received the prestigious 2014 EGCOA award for their outstanding achievement in facilitating the development and growth of European golf. The EGCOA and PGAs of Europe have worked closely for a number of years across a variety of European-focused projects specifically on developing the game and enabling the owners and Professionals to have a greater understanding of each other’s needs. “The EGCOA and PGAs of Europe share a common desire for advancement of the game and we are very pleased that the EGCOA have recognised the role the PGA Professional has to play in attracting and retaining golfers, and the ultimate advancement of the game.’’ PGAs of Europe Chief Executive, Ian Randell,
Dare to Dream Award – Tenniel Chu – Vice Chairman Mission Hills China
Mission Hills’ pioneering role in China’s golf development was recognised with a special award. The one-of-a-kind “Dare to Dream” trophy was presented to Mission Hills Group Vice Chairman Mr Tenniel Chu. The award “recognises Mission Hills’ pioneering role in developing golf in China, using it to build bridges with the outside world and finding innovative ways to grow the game and nurture future champions”. ‘’Tenniel is a true pioneer and leader in the development of the golf, leisure and tourism industry in China and continues to drive the growth of the industry forward with his out of the box approach.’’ Said EGCOA President Alexander Baron von Spoercken. In accepting the award from EGCOA President Alexander Baron von Spoercken, Mr Chu dedicated it to his late father, Dr David Chu, the founder and former Chairman of Mission Hills Group who is fondly remembered as “The Father of Golf in China”.
EGCOA Media Award – GMé (Golf Management Europe)
Each year the EGCOA recognises a leading organisation for their support of both the EGCOA and the global golf industry. The 2014 honours went to GMé (Golf Management Europe), who throughout the years have provided an unparalleled insight into global golf development. Endlessly in search of emerging industry trends & opportunities for the golf industry. Accepting the award on behalf of was GMé Publisher, Michael Lenihan.
