Page 17 - GM Winter 2021

much About do Turf!
Chris Dew, AGS
best conditioned golf course in Canada since 1997. His expertise in construction and his ability to execute the Fazio Group’s vision has allowed him to establish a level of expertise that most superintendents aspire to. He has been an active member of the OTRF board and responsible for fundraising for turf research and was an instructor at the John Deere/Bayer Green Start Academy, helping assistants develop their business and leadership skills.
When asked who Chris’ mentors were, he noted, “After two years of working for Gord Nimmo at The Sarnia Golf and Curling Club, Gord suggested I move into the Toronto market. Shortly after that advice, I was hired by Bob Brewster at the Weston Golf and Country Club as the
Assistant Superintendent. It proved to be a fantastic experience as I was lucky enough to work for two great super- intendents on the same property. Bob for five years and then Thom Charters for two. Learning from two guys, who had different strengths, proved to be a wonderful way to develop my own skills. I gained an understanding of what it takes to create exceptional playing conditions and how to manage our side of the business.”
When asked what the one thing is he would tell someone who is thinking about entering this industry or who is newly involved in the indus- try Chris replied, “I couldn’t stop at just one thing. I would start by saying, do not go into this lightly. And from there, as it would also be for a more advanced individual, recognize and understand your passions...and culti- vate them; use your insecurities as motivators; set yourself apart by being the ‘go to’ person; get yourself known within your own Club, and in some way get recognized by your industry peers. And finally, learn as much about people as you do turf.”
In the numerous references and personal letters that were sent in the nomination package for Chris the common themes are of integrity, respectful, leader, listener, team player, professional and lifelong learner of turf management and friend. He clearly loves what he does! When asked to give advice to his younger self he says, “Make sure you have balance in your life. Yes, you will have to work efficiently to be
successful, but appreciate how a balanced life will offer you expanded happiness.”
We hope you will come out and support Chris who will be recognized during The Canadian Golf Course Management Conference and presented with his award during the Award Luncheon in January 2022.
As the CGSA/Bayer Superintendent of the Year winner, Chris will receive the following:
• Attendance at and participation in the 2021 Fall Field Day;
• Chris and his companion will receive an “All-Access” registration to The Canadian Golf Course Management Conference, 4 nights’ accommoda- tion at the conference hotel and transportation to the conference location;
• A site visit with a written agronomic report from a Bayer Green Solution Specialist, including;
• $5,000 Bayer plant protection package for the golf course; and •Trip for two to attend a Bayer
educational opportunity that would include golf.
This award is funded by Bayer – a PLATINUM sponsor of the CGSA. GM
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