Balfour Golf Course superintendent earns provincial award
By The Nelson Daily Sports
Larry Olson of the Balfour Golf Course was recent recognized by the BC Golf Course Superintendents Association.
Olson, born and raised in Kaslo, was acknowledged as the Syngenta Superintendent of the Year for 2022 during the BC Golf Course Superintendents Association awards ceremony earlier this month in Victoria.
“When (BCGSA president) Warren (Blue) called me and told me I was being awarded the Syngenta, BCGSA superintendent of the year award I’ll admit at first, I thought, “well, okay, that’s kinda nice”, but once it sunk in, I realized it’s one hell of an honor,” Olson said in a prepared statement read out at the award ceremony.
Olson was unable to attend the ceremony in person due to travel issues.
There are so many BC supers that are just as deserving of this award as I am,” Olson added.
“So, for you, my peers, to recognize my efforts in the industry it truly does mean a lot to me.”
Olson has been the course superintendent at the Balfour Golf Course since 2018.
He grew up in Kaslo, graduating from J.V. Humphries in 1985.
Olson then attended Seneca College, in King City, Ont. where is graduated with high honours as a Golf Course Technician.
After interning at Summit Golf Course in Richmond Hill, Ont., Olson returned to his roots to run the newly constructed Balfour Golf Course from 1990 to 1999.
From 200-2017, Olson worked at the Penticton Golf and Country Club before moving back to the Kootenays.
“Larry Olson was, and has always been, an inspiration to his peers in the industry which has gained him the utmost admiration and respect from both his contemporaries and peers alike,” said BCGSA president Blue in a press release.
Olson paid tribute to his many his many friends he’s met along with way, including former Nelsonite Graeme Douglas, who have provided feedback and information during his stellar career.
“Of course, there’s always challenges, but being able to reach out to so many of you, my colleagues, for advice makes even the biggest of challenges seem easily overcome,” Olson said.
“Thank you to all of you.”
As winner of the BCGSA award, Olson will receive an all-expenses paid trip to the CGSA (Canadian Golf Superintendents Association) educational days/ fall field day to be held later this year at Beacon Hall Golf Club north of Toronto, Ontario, compliments of sponsor Syngenta.
The Les Furber designed 6,400 yard, 18-hole Balfour Golf Course is one of the many picturesque tracks located in the Kootenays.
Olson, along with his dedicated staff, is responsible for expertly manicuring the course from tee to green, and along with club pro Craig Wilkinson, creating an atmosphere that is guaranteed to inspire players at any level.
