A distinguished gallery watching the 1921 National Open Tournament at Columbia included President Warren G. Harding (front row in white suit and bat) and Vice President Calvin Coolidge (right of the President). Photo Courtesy of Columbia Country Club

When the Professional Golfers’ Association of America formed in 1916, the charter members established seven regional sections. The Southeastern Section spanned Philadelphia to Atlanta. During the early 1920s three professional golf organizations emerged in what is now the Middle Atlantic PGA’s territory: the District of Columbia Professional Golfers’ Association, the Maryland State Professional Golfers’ Association and an organization based in Norfolk. Little is known about the Norfolk group.

The Middle Atlantic PGA (MAPGA) formed in 1925. It evolved from three professional golf organizations: the District of Columbia Professional Golfers’ Association, the Maryland State Professional Golfers’ Association, and a group based in Norfolk.

The MAPGA’s formative meeting occurred on March 2, 1925, at “Spalding’s” and Columbia CC. Professionals from D.C., Maryland, and Virginia formed an organizing committee. The newly formed Section planned an “Open” Championship. Leo Diegel won the inaugural Middle Atlantic PGA Open at Burning Tree in October 1925. Also in 1925, the MAPGA held its first PGA Championship Qualifier at Columbia.

Robert Barnett was elected MAPGA President in the spring of 1926. That year’s PGA qualifier took place at Congressional with Jimmy Thomson and Fred McLeod earning the spots. Leo Diegel repeated as the Middle Atlantic PGA Open Champion held at Rolling Road.

Charles Betschler (pictured below) succeeded Robert Barnett as President in 1928. The Section held its first “Match Play” Championship exclusively for their membership. Johnny Roche defeated Glenn Spencer in the final match at Five Farms. Arthur Thorn succeeded to the Presidency in 1929. In the 1929 Section Championship final at Suburban, Robert Barnett bested J. Munro Hunter.

The MAPGA listed 71 members in 1929.

Charles Betschler (on the left) putting on the 9th green at Rolling Road GC against Mr. Savage – October 11, 1925

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Cavalier Yacht and Country Club’s 18th hole (circa 1930s)

The 1930s presented significant challenges for the Middle Atlantic PGA (MAPGA) as the Great Depression impacted the entire nation, including the world of professional golf. Nationwide, PGA membership declined, and the MAPGA mirrored this trend, seeing its membership dip from 71 in 1929 to 55 in 1939. Leadership during this period was primarily based in the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas. While the MAPGA section included Virginia, professionals from that region were less involved in championships and leadership until the latter part of the decade. In 1938, Virginia professionals formed their own organization, the Virginia Association of Golf Professionals (VAGP).

Two years earlier in March 1936, the Norfolk – Portsmouth – Virginia Beach professionals formed the Tidewater PGA in an organizational meeting at Cavalier Yacht and CC.  They elected Al Houghton (then at Cavalier Yacht and CC) President with Walter Beckett (Truxton Manor) and Tom Skipper (Princess Anne) Vice Presidents.  Throughout 1936, the Tidewater PGA held tournaments and staged the only Tidewater PGA Championship ever played.

Key figures shaped the MAPGA in the 1930s, including Robert Barnett, Ralph Beach, Robert Cruickshank, Al Houghton, and Wiffy Cox. Al Houghton emerged as a major promoter, establishing the National Capital Opens, which attracted touring professionals with significant prize money. These opens featured prominent winners such as Willie MacFarlane, Horton Smith, Paul Runyan, and Bobby Cruickshank.

The MAPGA held Match Play Championships in the early 1930s but transitioned to stroke play for the Section Championship in 1937. This change, along with increased prize money, boosted participation. Leo Walper won the Section Championship in both 1937 and 1938. The decade concluded with a record field at the 1939 Section Championship at Columbia CC, won by Cliff Spencer. The Section also held Assistant Professional Championships in the early part of the decade.

In 1938, the MAPGA restructured its leadership, creating regional vice presidencies to include representation from Baltimore, Washington D.C., and Virginia. This change reflected the growing involvement of Virginia professionals. The VAGP, formed that same year, remained independent for some time before eventually merging with the MAPGA. A notable exhibition match in 1939 featured Henry Pickard, Byron Nelson, Wiffy Cox, and Fred McLeod, highlighting the era’s talent.

Fred McCleod poses after hitting a shot

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Professional and amateur golf came to a near standstill during World War II (1942-1945). The MAPGA did not conduct a Section Championship in 1943. Many members entered the military or took jobs in war-production industries.

Prior to the War, Wiffy Cox (Congressional) was elected President at the 1940 Annual Meeting. Johnny Flattery replaced Wiffy Cox as President in 1943 and continued in 1944. The last meeting before the end of the War took place in April 1945 when they began laying the groundwork for the post-war rehabilitation program.

Once the outcome of World War II was no longer in doubt, the PGA and MAPGA focused on providing programs for wounded veterans. The PGA of America established a Rehabilitation Committee. Robert Barnett chaired the local MAPGA Committee which outlined plans to conduct golf days at courses to raise funds for building nine-hole courses at three military hospitals: Bethesda Naval, Forest Glen and Walter Reed.

The first MAPGA Annual Meeting after the War took place in October 1945. Johnny Flattery remained as President. In the first meeting of 1946, the membership enacted some new provisions, notably they redefined professional membership criteria. Mel Shorey (Indian Spring) was elected President at the 1946 MAPGA Annual Meeting. In 1947, Carroll MacMaster won the presidency, and again in 1948. In 1949, Al Houghton succeeded in capturing the Presidency.

Before the War in the Section Championships “Rut” Coffey won in 1940, Jack Isaacs in 1941 and Worsham in 1942. The Section Championship resumed in 1944 when Andy Gibson won and in 1945 Bobby Cruickshank took the title. Then in 1946 and in 1947 Lew Worsham triumphed for the third time. Andy Gibson won in 1948 and Ralph Beach in 1949.

Newspaper article from the “Bundles of Britain”, and exhibition match that raised funds for “war-scarred” Britain. Clarence Doser set the course record with a score of 65. (circa 1940)

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The 1950s marked a period of significant expansion for the MAPGA. Membership, the number of assistant professionals, and the tournament schedule all grew considerably. This resurgence followed the recovery of professional golf organizations after World War II, which was documented in publications like “Professional Golfer” and local newspapers. The decade witnessed stable leadership within the MAPGA, with key figures like Al Houghton, Max Elbin, and Bill Clarke guiding the organization. These leaders focused on strengthening the MAPGA’s structure, establishing committees, and improving tournament operations, and later went on to lead the PGA of America.

Under Houghton’s presidency, the MAPGA made several key advancements. He established an advisory committee and a junior golf committee, expanded the tournament committee, and implemented changes to entry fees and prize money. He also ensured that only head professionals and their assistants could compete in Section tournaments. The tournament schedule expanded rapidly, growing from 24 events in 1950 to 36 by 1955. This increase provided ample playing opportunities for members and contributed to the organization’s growing popularity and financial stability.

The MAPGA also focused on standardizing practices and recognizing excellence. In 1953, they adopted the USGA handicap system, making each professional responsible for their amateur member’s handicaps. In 1955, the MAPGA introduced awards for Player of the Year, which was first awarded to Charles Bassler, and Club Professional of the Year, given to Jimmy Flattery for his work with junior golf. These initiatives helped to professionalize the organization and celebrate its top performers.

Key tournaments during this period included the Section Championship, the PGA Championship Qualifier, and the Assistant Professional Championships. Several individuals dominated tournament play, including Charles Bassler, Jack Isaacs, John O’Donnell, and Walter Romans. Chandler Harper’s victory in the 1950 PGA Championship was a major highlight, bringing national recognition to the MAPGA. The Virginia Association of Golf Professionals also played a role, resuming its State Opens and collaborating with the MAPGA on events.

Overall, the 1950s were a transformative decade for the MAPGA, characterized by growth, improved organization, and the emergence of prominent figures in professional golf. The organization’s post-war recovery led to a thriving tournament schedule, increased membership, and a stronger sense of community among its members, laying the foundation for future success.

Former MAPGA President and Hall of Fame Member, Fred McLeod, admires his portrait with Vice President Richard M. Nixon. (circa 1955)

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The MAPGA continued to experience significant growth from 1956 to 1962. Membership, tournaments, and prize money all increased substantially. Key figures like Max Elbin and Bill Clarke provided leadership, with both eventually becoming President of the PGA of America. In 1959, the Section introduced the Pro-President and Pro-Official tournaments. By 1961, MAPGA had 201 members.

In 1956, under President Max Elbin, committees were formed or continued, including those for tournaments, publicity, and relief for retired professionals. The MAPGA leaders were also instrumental in establishing employment contracts between golf professionals and clubs/courses, developing the first set of guidelines in 1956-1958 and publishing a “Standards of Employment Contract” in 1958. By 1962, they further developed the “Standards of Employment,” making MAPGA the first of the PGA’s 34 Sections to take such action.

The late 1950s saw leadership changes and initiatives within MAPGA. In 1957, John O’Donnell challenged Max Elbin’s reelection, but Elbin won. Ward Burgess became Secretary-Treasurer. The Tournament Committee began publishing a booklet with the tournament schedule and committee members. In 1958, Bill Clarke became the youngest-ever MAPGA President and initiated educational programs for Assistant Professionals.

Awards and championships were also established during this period. The “Professional of the Year” award began in 1955, and the MAPGA inaugurated a “Player of the Year” Honor also in 1955. Section Championships were held annually, with several different professionals winning the title between 1956 and 1962.

Jack Isaacs (L) and Joe Zarhardt (R) finish First and Second place in the Atlantic City Senior Open. (circa 1958)

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The early 1960s brought further advancements. In 1960, an educational event was held at the University of Maryland, featuring well-known speakers. Discussions began about publishing a detailed Tournament Program Booklet and a “caddie scholarship” program. Tests for playing privileges were developed, and a “Trade Show” was introduced. Bill Clarke advocated for a paid “czar” to manage the MAPGA, leading to the hiring of an Executive Director and a paid tournament manager four years later.

In 1964 the MAPGA leadership expanded by adding At-Large Vice Presidents, and new initiatives such as the Pro-Assistant and the separating of the Senior Championship from the Section Championship were introduced. In 1966, the MAPGA established the Horton Smith Award to recognize outstanding service, with early recipients including Bill Strausbaugh, Frank Cronin, and Irv Schloss. The same year, the Section opened an office and hired its first Executive Director, Roland Weeks, and by 1969, they produced their first Newsletter.

Key leadership changes marked the early part of the decade. George Bird served as President, followed by Al Houghton in 1964. Carl Rasnic then held the position from 1966 to 1968. The Executive Committee was expanded, and various business schools and educational programs were conducted under the direction of Frank Cronin, covering topics like personnel, ethics, teaching, and accounting. These initiatives aimed to professionalize and enhance the skills of the MAPGA members.

A pivotal moment occurred in early 1966 when the Section opened its first office for business management and record keeping, hiring Roland Weeks as the Executive Director. This move provided a centralized location and professional staff for the organization. The Section also explored the possibility of creating a two-chapter system or a separate Virginia Section due to geographical challenges, but these efforts were not immediately successful and the issue remained unresolved until 1977.

During this period, several professionals won their first and only Section Championships, including T.R. “Dick” Sleichter, Bill Deck, Dick Whetzle, Paul Haviland, Claude King, Jimmy Bellizzi, and Larry Wise. Player of the Year honors were awarded to individuals like Lou Graham, Paul Haviland, Dick Whetzle, Clare Emery, Bill Sporre, and Leo Wykle. The Section also recognized outstanding contributions with the Professional of the Year award, and several members received national recognition, such as Bill Clarke and Bill Strausbaugh winning the Horton Smith Award and Bill Strausbaugh being named Professional of the Year.

The 1960s were a period of substantial growth and professionalization for the MAPGA. The establishment of an office and the hiring of an Executive Director provided a more stable organizational structure. The introduction of new awards and educational programs further enhanced the Section’s development. Despite challenges, such as the debate over creating a separate Virginia Section, the MAPGA made significant strides in solidifying its operations and supporting its members.

Max Elbin (L) presents Don January (R) with the Wanamaker Trophy. (circa 1967)

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Throughout the 1970s, the MAPGA expanded from 147 head professionals in 1970 to 220 in 1979. This growth was partly driven by the incorporation of the Virginia Association of Golf Professionals (VAGP) in 1968. The MAPGA organization included a “MAPGA Section” with a “Virginia Chapter” and a short-lived “Northern Chapter (1971-1972).” Leadership within the MAPGA also expanded during this time.

The 1970s saw the establishment of a more structured tournament schedule, with both the Virginia and Northern Chapters holding events. The Section also introduced new championships, such as the Quarter Century Championship in 1974 and the Team Championship in 1976. In 1970, the Section Office took over management of the tournament program.

Five men held the MAPGA Presidency during the 1970s: Tony Marlowe, Dick Whetzle, Bill “Coach” Strausbaugh, Herb Rose, and Alex McNeil. The Virginia and Northern Chapter officers also served on the Executive Committee. After Strausbaugh’s three-year term ended, the Section established two one-year term limits. The Virginia Chapter sought PGA “Section” status, but the National PGA denied their request in 1977.

The MAPGA hosted executive seminars and business schools in the early 1970s, with notable figures like Bob Toski and Jim Flick participating as faculty. In 1971, Al Green became the first African American admitted to MAPGA membership. Adele Bellizzi played a key role in managing the Section’s business matters and later became the Executive Director in 1980.

Several professionals won Section Championships and “Player of the Year” awards throughout the 1970s. The Section also recognized individuals with “Professional of the Year,” Horton Smith, and Assistant Professional of the Year awards. Bill Strausbaugh was elected to the District 10/PGA Vice Presidency, and Bill Clarke served as PGA Treasurer, Secretary, and President during this period.

MAPGA and Philadelphia Schmidt’s Cup Teams
(L to R back) Henry Williams, Jr., Charles Houts, Bob Ross, Tom Smack, Tony Perla, Bobby Morris, Art Waerig, Al Green, Alan Shanki, Dorsey Meade, Dick Smith and Morgan Tiller (L to R middle) Jennings House, Jimmy Johnson, Larry Wise, Skee Riegel, Dick Whetzle, Bob Schoener, Jr., Jimmy Bellizzi, Jeff Steinberg, and Larry Wheeler (L to R front) David Jimenez, Ted Mackenzie, J.P. Leigh, Pete Trenham, Bill Sporee and Stan Dudas. (circa 1972)

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in the 1980s, the MAPGA began truly growing into one of the largest sections in the country. Under the leadership of Jim Folks and Hank Majewski, the section established a three-chapter system in 1988. Throughout the decade, MAPGA expanded its operations, owning two offices, serving approximately 650 members, and conducting numerous events. The section also launched new tournaments, merchandise shows, a Hall of Fame dinner, and various publications. By the end of 1989, MAPGA was the eighth largest section in the PGA of America.

MAPGA made strides in inclusivity by welcoming women into its ranks. Mary Allice Canney became the first woman to play in a MAPGA tournament in 1980. The section also established a Hall of Fame and introduced various awards, including Teacher of the Year, Citizen of the Year, Youth Player Development Award, and President’s Award.

The 1980s saw a succession of presidents, including Don Saylor, Dave Walker, John Haines, Jim Folks, and Hank Majewski. The section witnessed growth in membership, tournament participation, and overall influence within the PGA of America. Individual members also achieved national recognition, with several winning PGA Assistant’s Championships and other national awards.

Cover of “Club Professional and You” featuring Dick and Mary Canney in the Chantilly Golf Shop. (circa 1983)

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The MAPGA began this decade as one of the five largest PGA Sections, the MAPGA boasted a staff of nine across two offices in Columbia and Richmond, along with a dedicated publishing team. The section was led by a succession of presidents, including Rod Thompson, Wayne Holley, Bob Fretwell, Mike Ahrnsbrak, and Chuck Bassler. The organization’s structure evolved to include twenty-three committees and three chapters, each with its own leadership, expanding the number of individuals in leadership positions.

Technological advancements played a crucial role in modernizing the Section’s operations. The introduction of desktop computing, integrated networks, fax machines, and personal phones enhanced efficiency in managing databases, surveys, handicaps, and contracts, replacing older paper-based methods. The Section also initiated several new awards, including the Earle Helen Sports Media Award and the Salesperson of the Year Award, and reintroduced the Senior/Junior event to its tournament schedule. New divisions and awards for senior and women players were also established, reflecting the Section’s expanding reach.

The leadership structure within MAPGA became more complex, with a lengthier path to Section leadership. Individuals would typically spend six to eight years in various Chapter positions before potentially moving on to Section roles, resulting in board memberships lasting up to twelve to sixteen years. The Section also mourned the loss of its long-time chronicler, Merrell Whittlesey, whose sports writing career spanned decades and included significant contributions to the Section’s publications.

In the mid-1990s, a separate Senior Association was formed, led by Dick Canney, to conduct professional-only events and championships for senior players. The Section continued to grow, hiring Colonel Richard Johns and Jon Guhl in 1995, who later became Executive Director and Assistant Executive Director, respectively. Their leadership enhanced the Section’s financial stability and led to the acquisition of a new, wholly-owned building in Stafford. The decade also saw MAPGA produce another PGA of America President, Allen Wronowski, and former MAPGA President Paul Michaelian serve on the PGA of America Board of Control.

Throughout the 1990s, national award recognition was achieved by Bill Strausbaugh and Coleman Plecker. The tournament scene saw new senior divisions and awards further enriching the competition. The MAPGA’s evolution in the 1990s set the stage for its continued growth and success in the following decades.

Lyn Luck with President Mike Ahrnsbrak at his induction to the Dewar’s Hall of Fame for Virginia Golf Professionals at Willow Oaks Country Club. (circa 1996)

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Information coming soon!

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