The PGA of British Columbia is proud to announce long-time PGA of BC Life Member Alvie Thompson will be honoured with the 2014 PGA of British Columbia Lifetime Achievement Award.
The Award, nominated by a special committee and approved by the PGA of BC Board of Directors honours individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the PGA of BC over an extended period of time through their actions on and off the golf course. This highest level of honour is not one that is awarded every year and has only been awarded seven previous times in the history of PGA of BC. Most recently, former Victoria Golf Club Head Professional Mike Parker was recognized in 2012. Other recipients include Herb Paterson (2001), Gerry Chatelain (2006), Stan Leonard (2006), Jack McLaughlin (2007), Dick Munn (2010), and Jim Gibson (2011).
Alvie Thompson was born in Unity, Saskatchewan and moved to British Columbia during his childhood. After an accomplished Amateur career, he became a member of the PGA of Canada in 1957 while working at Marine Drive Golf Club under the legendary Stan Leonard. His impressive Professional playing accolades include winning three Manitoba Open Championships, winning a PGA of Canada Championship, competing in the Bing Crosby Tournament at Pebble Beach, but most notably in 1962, being invited to play in The Masters where he shot a final round 71 to finish in a tie for 28th place.
After his playing career, Mr. Thompson went on to become a successful Club Professional for thirty years, most notably as Head Professional at McCleery Golf Course from 1976-1994. He passed along his knowledge of the game and became a renowned mentor on the business of golf to Professionals such as Derek Thornley, Jim Pringle, Pat Dunn, Mike Smedstad and Norm Jackson to name a few. He currently resides on the Sunshine Coast with wife Donna and in 2012, was honoured with a Lifetime membership at the Sunshine Coast Golf & Country Club. Alvie Thompson's career is a true inspiration to all Club Professionals.
An evening to honour Mr. Thompson's accomplishments will take place on Tuesday September 30th at Seymour Golf & Country Club in North Vancouver, BC. The event will be held in conjunction with the 2014 Cleveland Golf/Srixon Canada PGA of BC Club Professional Championship presented by Club Car.