Lawrence, Kansas, United States: As a way to assist golf course superintendents with their professional development, each year the Environmental Science Division of Bayer CropScience teams up with the Environmental Institute for Golf, the philanthropic organisation of the Golf Course Superintendents Association, to send five superintendents to the annual Golf Industry Show (GIS) through the Bayer Superintendent Grant Programme.
For the 2018 GIS, Bayer is doubling its support and sending five additional superintendents – all from areas affected by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, including Texas, Louisiana, Florida and Puerto Rico.
“Our goal with the Bayer Superintendent Grant Programme has always been to empower superintendents with the best in continuing education,” said David Wells, Golf Business Manager for Bayer, an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.
“We recognise that this year so many superintendents are facing monumental challenges with hurricane recovery, and we want to help by making sure they have access to key learning opportunities at the Golf Industry Show.”
Applications for the Bayer Superintendent Grant Programme are open now through November 28.
Currently employed superintendents who have not attended GIS in the prior two years (Orlando 2017 and San Diego 2016) are eligible to apply. For hurricane victims, the recent attendance rule will be waived. Winners receive airfare, hotel accommodation for five nights, conference full-pack registration, two education seminars and US$200 spending money.
“Bayer has a long history as a strong supporter of GCSAA and EIFG,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “The extreme generosity they have shown in expanding the grant programme specifically for hurricane victims is a testament to their commitment to GCSAA and our members.”
Bayer is a member of the Victory Club in the EIFG’s cumulative giving programme, which recognises organisations who have donated over US$1 million since 1987. They are also a Silver partner in GCSAA’s Partner Recognition Programme.