Tokyo, Japan: The Professional Golfers’ Association of Japan (PGAJ), one of Asia’s eldest and most respected sporting organisations, has joined the Asian Golf Industry Federation (AGIF).

Founded in 1957, the PGAJ has more than 5,000 qualified golf professionals registered as members and is active in all areas of golf in Japan.

In 1981, with approval from the Ministry of Education, it was established as an incorporated association. Another major milestone followed in 2013 when the PGAJ was approved by the Cabinet Office, and was transitioned to a ‘public interest incorporated association’.

With legendary Masahiro ‘Massy’ Kuramoto as its Chairman, the PGAJ is committed to spreading its wings and embracing new opportunities in Japan and beyond.

“In order to make golf a sport that is loved by everyone as a lifelong sport, we will continue to actively engage in activities suitable for the leaders of the golf world,” said Kuramoto, winner of 30 Japan Golf Tour Organisations (JGTO) events during a glittering playing career.

Seventh on the JGTO’s career money list, Kuramoto played 65 times on the PGA Tour from 1978 to 1997. His best finish in a Major championship was a tie for fourth at the Open Championship in 1982.

He said: “By joining the Asian Golf Industry Federation we hope to be able to provide more opportunities for our own members, and also to contribute to the growth and development of the game across the region.

“Our mission at the PGA is not only to develop tournament players, but also to develop excellent teaching professionals in order to fulfil our responsibility for the proper spread and development of golf.

“In addition, the PGA is actively engaged in various initiatives such as social contribution activities, junior development, research activities, and holding various seminars in close contact with the local community, as well as in the fields of tournaments and teaching.”

The PGAJ follows the PGA of America and the PGA of Great Britain and Ireland as an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

“The PGAJ and the PGA of America have a very good working relationship,” said Sean Thornberry, Senior Account Executive, Global Development with the PGA of America, and a Board Member of the AGIF.

“As well as partnering with them on the launch of the PGA Jr. League in Japan, we regularly host each other at events and share information and best practices. I’m sure our ties will become closer now that we’re both aligned with the AGIF,” added Thornberry.

Eric Lynge, the AGIF’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “With more than 60 years of history, the PGA of Japan is a revered organisation that has played an integral part in making Japan one of the world’s biggest and strongest golfing markets.

“With our mutual aims of growing all aspects of golf in a sustainable fashion, we very much look forward to working with Massy and his team in the coming months and years.”