FARMINGTON HILLS — Judy Mason, the director of golf at Michaywe Pines in Gaylord, has been named the Golf Association of Michigan (GAM) Club Services Representative of the Year. The annual award recognizes a club representative who demonstrates outstanding service to the sport throughout Michigan.
Mason is starting her 23rd season at Michaywe Pines, a residential and resort community that serves both local residents and public golfers. She was selected for the honor for her work hosting amateur championships, organizing educational seminars and expanding GAM membership programs at the facility.
Drew Yntema, director of member services for the GAM, nominated Mason for the award based on her long-term contributions to the organization. “Through her long-lasting efforts Judy has consistently supported GAM’s core initiatives by not only hosting amateur championships and qualifiers but organizing the world handicap system education seminars and helping grow GAM memberships year after year at Michaywe Pines,” Yntema said. He added that she provides golfers with access to membership programs like Golf Genius and GHIN software to manage club events and leagues.
Ken Hartmann, senior director of competitions and USGA services for the GAM, described Mason as an exceptional director who manages all aspects of the golf business. “She is all about the game of golf and service, works sunup to sundown and does it all,” Hartmann said. “If you need decisions made, she makes them. If you need a cart pulled up or put away, she is not above doing that, too. She is always willing to host tournaments and do whatever she can.”
Mason, 60, expressed surprise at receiving the recognition from the state association. “I guess I was shocked that I was selected,” Mason said. “It’s humbling that the GAM feels I should win an award. It was very unexpected.” Mason previously worked at other golf facilities where she began hosting events and participating in GAM programs early in her career.At Michaywe Pines, Mason works with a local organization to maintain the facility. “We have what is called the Michaywe Golf Association within our community and the purpose is to support the staff and enhance the facility,” Mason said. She noted that the association includes volunteers who work to enhance the game. “Like what the GAM does for golf around the state, our association answers our needs and shapes this great golf community,” Mason said.
The Pines course is part of a large planned residential development that includes private homes, condominiums and rentals. The facility features lake access, a clubhouse and beach facilities for year-round residents, retirees and vacationers. The course itself was designed and later renovated by Don Childs. It first opened in 1972 and is currently one of 17 destination courses affiliated with the Gaylord Golf Mecca cooperative marketing group.Mason said she views the relationship with the GAM as a privilege and a resource for various types of golf facilities. “I learned early in my career at other golf facilities what the GAM does and everywhere I have worked I have enjoyed having events and meeting the great golfers in the state,” Mason said. “We try to host whenever we can.”
The Pines course is part of a large planned residential development that includes private homes, condominiums and rentals. The facility features lake access, a clubhouse and beach facilities for year-round residents, retirees and vacationers. The course itself was designed and later renovated by Don Childs. It first opened in 1972 and is currently one of 17 destination courses affiliated with the Gaylord Golf Mecca cooperative marketing group.Mason said she views the relationship with the GAM as a privilege and a resource for various types of golf facilities. “I learned early in my career at other golf facilities what the GAM does, and everywhere I have worked I have enjoyed having events and meeting the great golfers in the state,” Mason said. “We try to host whenever we can.”