For the second time in as many years, Anne Peabody has been recognized for her tireless volunteer work as a golf volunteer.
The Tsawwassen resident received Golf Canada's Distinguished Service Award at the national organization's annual general meeting last weekend in Vancouver. Peabody shared the honours with longtime Vancouver Sun golf writer Brad Ziemer.
"Golf Canada is proud to acknowledge Anne Peabody and Brad Ziemer and celebrate their outstanding contributions to the game of golf as our 2013 Distinguished Service Award recipients," said Golf Canada CEO Scott Simmons. "In their own unique way, Brad and Anne have had a significant impact on the game of golf. Their commitment and passion for the sport makes each of them a truly deserving recipient."
Peabody has dedicated over 40 years of her life to improving golf in B.C. and across the country.
Serving as president of the former British Columbia Ladies Golf Association (BCLGA), Peabody was instrumental in the amalgamation of what is now the British Columbia Golf Association.
She was the first female president of the BCGA and also served on the board of the former Canadian Ladies Golf Association (now amalgamated with Golf Canada). She has held several capacities with Golf Canada including the Provincial Council from 2009-2012 as well as the governance committee.
In addition to being a Master Golf Course Rater, Peabody has held various roles on Course Rating and Handicapping Committees. A 12-time ladies champion at Tsawwassen, Peabody has also represented B.C. on a number of occasions.
In addition to her golf involvement, she raised nine children and has been an active volunteer with various community organizations.
The Golf Canada award came after she won B.C.
Golf's Distinguished Service Award last April.
"They are both equally rewarding and I feel terribly honoured to be the recipient of them both," said Peabody. "The provincial award was presented before many of the people I worked with in the province. The Golf Canada Award was presented before people I worked with across Canada over the years."
She got her start as a volunteer by helping out a local amateur tournament her husband was competing in. She hasn't stopped since.
"Being able to contribute to helping to meet the challenges and making the changes necessary for the betterment of the sport," she said of her motivation. "It truly is a sport for all ages and abilities. It has been a privilege working with so many wonderful people, volunteers and staff who often went the extra mile keeping what was beneficial to the Association and the sport uppermost."
