The USGA has announced the 2023 recipients of its Annual Awards – including the Joe Dey Award, the Herbert Warren Wind Award and the Green Section Award – recognizing individuals who demonstrate exceptional efforts in volunteerism, innovation and golf literature.
Among those award honorees is a Rochester native and past Rochester District Golf Association President, Robin Farran. Farran, who served as RDGA Vice President and President in 2001-2002 before moving on to serve in many roles as a volunteer for the USGA, is the recipient of this year’s Joe Dey Award in recognition of nearly 30 years of meritorious service to the game as a volunteer.
Also recognized by the USGA is James Roth, author of “Bless•ed One,” who has been selected as the winner of the USGA’s Herbert Warren Wind Award. Roch Gaussoin is the Green Section Award honoree for introducing new technologies and processes that advance putting green construction and management.
The USGA will recognize these honorees at its Annual Awards Dinner in Napa, Calif., on Saturday, Feb. 25 during the organization’s Annual Meeting, which will be held in person for the first time since 2020.
“The game of golf is better because of the knowledge and expertise of Robin, James and Roch,” said Mike Whan, CEO of the USGA. “Their contributions are helping to strengthen and advance the game for all who play – and the USGA is thrilled to showcase those efforts with this year’s Annual Awards.”
Robin Farran
Highly respected among peers for his dedication to Rules education and junior golf, Robin Farran – now a resident of Chandler, Arizona – has helped grow the game over the course of 28 years of selfless service. Since attending his first PGA/USGA Rules of Golf Workshop in 1995, he has committed himself to helping others interpret the Rules by developing educational materials and officiating at more than 1,000 championships locally, nationally and abroad. Farran also regularly conducts junior clinics and has raised more than $140,000 for the Junior Golf Association of Arizona through its 100-Hole Marathon in an effort to ensure that golf continues to thrive for future generations.
Farran is widely recognized as an ambassador for the Rules of Golf and a strong reflection of the award’s namesake, Joseph C. Dey Jr., who served as the USGA’s executive director from 1934-1968 and as the first commissioner of the PGA Tour.
Comments are closed.