The Canadian Golf Superintendents Association (CGSA) has announced that Christopher Dew, AGS from the National Golf Club in Woodbridge, Ont., has been named CGSA/Bayer Superintendent of the Year for 2021.
The CGSA/Bayer Superintendent of the Year award recognizes a member of the CGSA who has held the position of golf course superintendent for a minimum of five years and who has distinguished her or himself through dedication to the profession, performance as a golf course superintendent and contributions to their profession and their community.
“Chris has set the bar high for all superintendents in Canada. He manages one of the top courses in the country and provides superior playing conditions on a consistent basis. He does this year after year and yet remains a humble, kind, patient and true friend to so many in the industry. It was my distinct pleasure to personally notify Chris and congratulate him as the CGSA / Bayer Superintendent of the Year,” said John C. Scott, AGS, and CGSA president.
“Whether it’s providing first class playing conditions at the National or mentoring the many Assistants and AIT’s that have worked under his direction Chris has much to be proud of,” added Colin White, marketing manager for Bayer. “Chris is known for his professionalism and his willingness to help others in the turfgrass profession and this award recognizes those efforts.”
Dew has been a CGSA member since 1995. He has held the Accredited Golf Superintendent (AGS) designation since 2007 and has been the superintendent at the National Golf Club since 1997.
He was an active member of the OTRF board and responsible for fund raising for turf research. He was an instructor at the John Deere/Bayer Green Start Academy, helping assistants develop their business and leadership skills.
He has participated in focus groups that have forwarded information for CGSA initiatives and to further programs. He has mentored numerous students and assistants, many who have moved into superintendent positions.
Dew started in the 80s at the Weston Golf and Country Club in Toronto as the assistant superintendent. He moved to Royal Woodbine as superintendent in 1990 before taking the superintendent position at the National Golf Club of Canada in 1997.
“What an absolute thrill it was receiving a phone call from our president John Scott, sharing the Superintendent of the Year news.Thank you to both Bayer and the CGSA for this distinguished honour and to those who offered support for this particular tribute, a big thank you. It is truly heartwarming,” said Dew.
“It certainly has been a wonderful lifelong journey throughout which I am gratified to have developed bonds with countless industry peers and blessed to have several become true friends,” he added.
As the CGSA/Bayer Superintendent of the Year winner, he will receive attendance at and participation in the 2021 Fall Field Day, an “All-Access” registration to The Canadian Golf Course Management Conference, a site visit with a written agronomic report from a Bayer Green Solution Specialist, including a $5,000 Bayer plant protection package for the golf course and a trip for two to attend a Bayer educational opportunity that would include golf.
“Chris has provided his membership with potentially unparalleled playing conditions throughout his career. The challenge of satisfying a demanding membership consistently in this day of age is extremely difficult. His patience, perseverance, and uncanny ability to navigate a diverse and dynamic occupation has allowed Chris to succeed,” said Al Schwemler, president of the Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association
Dew will be recognized during the Canadian Golf Course Management Conference and presented with his award during the award luncheon in 2022.