A Brief History of Walt Gooder
Some of Walt’s accomplishments:
1982 President, Canadian Golf Superintendents Association (CGSA)
1984 Founding member, Alberta Turfgrass Research Foundation (ATRF)
1986 Founding member, Alberta Golf Superintendents Association (AGSA)
1988 Master Superintendent designation, CGSA
1997 CGSA Superintendent of the Year
2006 AGSA Distinguished Service Award
2008 CGSA John B. Steel Distinguished Service Award
2024 Walt Gooder Distinguished Service Award Winner – Brad Eshpeter
Presented by the Alberta Golf Superintendents Association (AGSA)
Canmore, AB – On November 19th, the Alberta Golf Superintendents Association (AGSA) presented Brad Eshpeter with the prestigious 2024 Walt Gooder Distinguished Service Award at the AGSA’s annual Property Managers Conference. This award recognizes outstanding contributions to the golf course superintendent profession in Alberta, and Brad’s career has exemplified the leadership, dedication, and professionalism that the award represents.
Brad Eshpeter has been a significant figure in the golf industry since the mid-1980s. Currently the superintendent of Redtail Landing Golf Club, Brad has been an active and engaged member of the AGSA, serving on its Board of Directors and as a Past President. He is also an accredited Golf Course Superintendent and holds the esteemed designation of Master Superintendent with the Canadian Golf Superintendents Association (CGSA). His commitment to the turfgrass industry has helped shape the field, both provincially and nationally.
“Brad’s dedication to the profession and his unwavering commitment to excellence make him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award,” said Mark Begin, President of the AGSA. “He is a true example of the values we hold dear in the AGSA—leadership, professionalism, and a passion for the golf course superintendent role.”
The Walt Gooder Distinguished Service Award was established in honour of Walter Gooder, one of the founding members of the AGSA. Walt Gooder was instrumental in the formation of the association in 1986 and had a distinguished career in the golf course management field, including serving as President of the CGSA and winning numerous accolades, including the CGSA Superintendent of the Year Award and the John B. Steele Award.
Brad’s selection as the 2024 award recipient reflects the same level of commitment and excellence that Walter Gooder embodied throughout his career.
A Personal Tribute
Joshua Davison, Head Golf Professional/General Manager at Redtail Landing Golf Club, shared his heartfelt congratulations:
“Congratulations, Brad, on this well-deserved recognition! I couldn’t be prouder to see your hard work, dedication, and passion for the profession acknowledged. Having worked alongside you at Redtail Landing for over 21 years, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand your commitment to growth and excellence. Your work ethic and your leadership are truly inspiring, and I look forward to many more achievements ahead.”
The AGSA is proud to honour Brad Eshpeter with the Walt Gooder Distinguished Service Award and to celebrate his outstanding contributions to the golf course management profession.
Congratulation Brad!
About the Alberta Golf Superintendents Association (AGSA):
The AGSA is dedicated to advancing the golf course superintendent profession through education, advocacy, and the promotion of best practices. It represents golf course professionals across Alberta, supporting members with tools, resources, and opportunities for professional growth.
Past Recipients
Year | Recipient |
---|---|
2022 | Jason Clouston |
2021 | Hugh Greene |
2020 | Dustin Zdan |
2019 | Wade Peckham |
2018 | Terry Shinkewski |
2017 | Wade Bishop |
2016 | Keith Blayney |
2015 | Barb Alexander |
2014 | Paul Dodson |
2013 | David Boyd |
2012 | Wayne Brown |
2011 | Bruce Constable |
2010 | Jay Leach |
2009 | Ron Hume |
2008 | Glenn Genereux |
2007 | James Beebe |
2006 | Walt Gooder |
2005 | Dean Morrison |
2004 | Jon Clark |
2003 | John Ing |
2002 | David Sluchinski |
2001 | Debbie Amirault |
2000 | Andrew AuCoin |
2023 | Reid Solodan |
2024 | Brad Eshpeter |