Clarence W. Benedict (1973)

The first-ever recipient of the MGA’s Distinguished Service Award was Clarence W. Benedict of Winged Foot Golf Club. Benedict was an active supporter of the MGA and local golf at all levels. Benedict served as the President of the Metropolitan Golf Association from 19XXX, the Westchester Golf Association from XX to XX and the United States Golf Association from XX to XX. In addition, Benedict served as the Chairman of the Anderson Memorial, held annually at Winged Foot.

At the Association’s 76^th Annual Meeting and Dinner, Benedict was presented with a scroll that honored his service. It read: “Few Individuals have been more involved in the game of golf and the continuance of its heritage than Clarence W. Benedict. He has been and continues to be a selfless contributor to the game and a molder of its traditions. Only five individuals have ever attained the Presidency of both the Metropolitan and United States Golf Associations. This exceptional honor, in itself, demonstrates the caliber of leadership Gus Benedict has displayed and the respect accorded to him.