Spotlight: Brent Hambrick TD of the Year Award | Professional Disc Golf Association
Date Published
The world of professional disc golf owes a debt of gratitude to its tireless Tournament Directors (TDs). These unsung heroes donate countless hours and resources to organize and host sanctioned competitions, fostering camaraderie and growth within the community. The PDGA's Brent Hambrick TD of the Year Award recognizes their invaluable contributions.
Named in memory of early touring pro Brent Hambrick, who championed disc golf events in Ohio and innovated video coverage at his events, this prestigious award honors those who have dedicated themselves to the sport. Ken Folger, a pioneer of competitive disc golf outside the US, was the first recipient in 1997 for running Tennessee's Flying Disc Championships.
Over the years, international leaders like Kozo Shimbo (2008) and Jussi Meresmaa (2009) have received recognition for directing premier events like the Japan Open and European Open. Collectively, groups such as the Des Moines Disc Golf Club (2004) and the Tulsa Disc Sports Association (2006) have been honored for their influential leadership in hosting major championships.
Now, it's time to recognize another deserving individual. Doug Bjerkaas, who led the 2016 PDGA Professional Disc Golf World Championships in Emporia, Kansas, will reprise his role at the 2022 Pro Worlds. As a nominee for the Brent Hambrick TD of the Year Award, Doug embodies the spirit of dedication and innovation that drives disc golf forward.
The award process involves nomination by PDGA Staff based on event quality, number of players served, and overall experience. Voters include disc golf professionals, State/Province and Country Coordinators, major tournament directors, and the PDGA Board of Directors and staff. Past winners have been recognized for their inspirational stories and personal dedication to growing the sport.
The 2021 nominees will be announced later in 2022, with a winner chosen from among them. As the disc golf community gathers at Pro Worlds in Emporia, we honor the heroes who make these events possible – those whose efforts deserve our gratitude and recognition.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE:
(Doug Bjerkaas – TD of the Year, 2016 – was tournament director for the 2016 PDGA Professional Disc Golf World Championships, held in Emporia, Kansas. Doug will reprise his role at 2022 Pro Worlds, also in Emporia... )
This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/spotlight-brent-hambrick-td-year-award