Anuvia Plant Nutrients will honor Bob Farren, CGCS, director of golf course and ground management at Pinehurst Resort, at the Golf Industry Show in San Antonio for his lifetime of achievement in golf course management. The honor, part of Anuvia’s Legends Initiative, recognizes integrity, passion and innovation in golf course management.
Farren — a 37-year GCSAA member whose accomplishments at the Pinehurst courses and crucial work in multiple U.S. Open and PGA Tour Championships are renowned in the golf industry — will be recognized on Wednesday, Feb. 7 at 2 p.m. at booth No. 11107 in the GIS exhibit hall. He will be joined by Marsh Benson, retired senior director of golf course and grounds at Augusta National Golf Club, and Matt Shaffer, former director of golf course operations at Merion Golf Club, for a lively discussion about their collective experience and career highlights.
The Anuvia Legends Initiative is a multifaceted program that identifies and recognizes industry leaders in golf course and turf management. “We put an emphasis on innovation and mentoring,” says Hugh MacGillivray, Anuvia Plant Nutrients vice president, commercial. “Through this initiative, we’ll develop and foster industry partnerships, creating a resource platform for best practices. In this, our inaugural year, we are pleased to honor Bob Farren.”
“He’s as good as they come, as far as I’m concerned,” says Benson of Farren. “I think he’s a great mentor, am proud to consider him a friend. He’s a professional who gives back to the industry a tremendous amount. I just can’t think of a better person to be honored.”
“Bob manages more than most people I know, with attention to detail and integrity. He is truly respected by everyone in this industry,” says Shaffer.
“I attended my first Golf Industry Show in San Antonio in 1978 and got to see a taste of what the industry had to offer and connect with the great people in it,” says Farren. “It is pretty remarkable to make this wide circle to be coming back to be recognized, and I’m extremely honored.”
Farren, Marsh and Shaffer will be on hand in Anuvia’s booth (No. 11107) from 2 to 5 p.m. on Wednesday. All GIS attendees are invited to stop by.