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Mark Gurnow Honored as Southwest PGA Golf Professional of the Year

Honored as the 51st recipient of the Southwest PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.. – 11-18-23 – Mark Gurnow, PGA General Manager at Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club in Gold Canyon, Ariz., has been named the 51st recipient of the Southwest PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award, the highest annual honor bestowed by the Southwest PGA on a PGA Professional.
“I am truly honored to be selected as the PGA Professional of the year by my peers,” said Gurnow. “I know how many worthy professionals there are in the Southwest Section and to be recognized is humbling. This award is not just for me but belongs to everyone that I have had the pleasure of working with my entire career. Having been a member of the PGA of America since 1983, I have seen many worthy professionals honored. Being a part of the list of honorees will be one of the proudest moments in my golf career.”

Gurnow heads the 2024 Southwest PGA Awards class for “qualities of leadership, strong moral character, and a substantial record of service” to the Southwest PGA and the game of golf. He will be honored at the Southwest PGA Awards Ceremony in February of 2025.

  • Mark Gurnow of Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club – Golf Professional of the Year 
  • Collins Tamashiro of Southern Highlands Golf Club (Nev.) – Assistant Golf Professional of the Year
  • Jeff Fisher of Longbow Golf Club – Teacher of the Year
  • Blake Isakson of Moon Valley Country Club – Youth Player Development Award
  • Brent Lingel of the Rolling Hills Golf Course – Bill Strausbaugh Award
  • Justin Bubser of the Tucson Golf Program – Player Development Award
  • Kevin Reagan of Granite Falls Golf Club – PGA Professional Development Award
  • Landyn Lewis of the Tucson Golf Program – The Patriot Award
  • Robert Spikes of El Rio Golf Course – The Deacon Palmer Award
  • Samantha Sorensen of Las Vegas Country Club – Merchandiser of the Year for Private Facilities
  • Aaron Slonim of TPC Las Vegas – Merchandiser of the Year for Public Facilities
  • Eric Dettman of We-Ko-Pa Golf Club – Merchandiser of the Year for Resort Facilities

The Southwest PGA Golf Professional of the Year – Born in Montgomery, Alabama, and raised in St. Augustine, Florida, Gurnow’s golf journey began at a young age. He graduated from the University of Alabama, where he was a three-year member of the men’s golf team. After graduation, Gurnow entered the golf industry, starting in the cart barn at the club where he had spent his youth playing. At just 23, he became the head golf professional at Ponce De Leon Country Club in Florida, overseeing all golf operations including owning the golf shop, range, and other concessions. In 1982, after two years at Ponce De Leon, Gurnow earned his PGA of America membership. He fulfilled his dream of playing professionally in 1985, spending one season on the PGA Tour. In 1988, Gurnow relocated to the Phoenix area, taking on the role of teaching professional at Karsten Golf Club at Arizona State University. A few seasons later, he became the head golf professional at Alta Mesa Golf Club in Mesa, Ariz. Gurnow’s career took an unexpected turn in 1995 when he was hired as the PGA General Manager at the newly opened Las Sendas Golf Club in Mesa, Arizona. This marked the start of a 29-year (and counting) career as a PGA General Manager, which ultimately led him to his current position at Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club, where he has served as General Manager since 2013, overseeing more than 180 employees.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gurnow is widely recognized for his support of young golf professionals. With over 40 years of PGA membership, he has mentored countless PGA Associates and Assistant Golf Professionals, many of whom have gone on to hold leadership roles in the industry. He is deeply committed to teaching the importance of integrity, often quoting C.S. Lewis: “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” Gurnow strives to lead by example, encouraging others to maintain a positive attitude and to do the right thing in all circumstances. Throughout his career, Gurnow has been an active volunteer, serving on numerous PGA committees. He was a member of the North Florida PGA Board of Directors from 1984 to 1988 and served on the Southwest PGA Board of Directors from 1992 to 1999 and again from 2016 to 2021. A notable player as well as a respected leader, Gurnow won two major Southwest PGA titles in 1994 – the Southwest PGA Match Play Championship and the Southwest PGA Championship. This Golf Professional of the Year recognition adds to his already impressive award list which includes the Southwest PGA Bill Strausbaugh Award in 2022 and the Player of the Year award in 1994. Gurnow also competed in the PGA Championship in both 1985 and 1988.

The Southwest PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year – Collins Tamashiro, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Southern Highlands Golf Club in Las Vegas, has been recognized as the 2024 Southwest PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year, an honor given to him for his dedication to the game of golf, his leadership with the Southwest Section and commitment to growing the game. Tamashiro, a PGA member since 2013, has gained valuable experience working as an Assistant Golf Professional at several prominent facilities in the Las Vegas area. He is deeply committed to fostering growth, both in individuals and within the broader golf community. Through his mentorship of Professional Golf Management (PGM) interns and associates, management of club operations, and promotion of a positive culture of teamwork and excellence, Tamashiro has become a respected leader in his field. He is passionate about inspiring fellow PGA Professionals, offering mentorship to those pursuing Class A membership, and cultivating a collaborative, elevated culture within the profession. Tamashiro leads by example, whether on the course or in professional development settings, instilling values such as integrity, discipline, and a commitment to continuous learning within the golf community. A strong believer in the power of helping others, Tamashiro approaches his work with a deep sense of purpose. Whether helping someone become a better golfer, a more effective employee, or simply improving someone's day, he finds fulfillment in making a positive impact on those around him. Beyond his work with members and fellow PGA Professionals, Tamashiro is dedicated to the development of junior golfers. He actively contributes to events such as Drive, Chip, and Putt, PGA Jr. League, and the Southern Nevada Junior Golf Association, helping young players develop their skills and love for the game from an early age. This recognition as the Southwest PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year marks Tamashiro’s first award within the Southwest PGA, reflecting his outstanding contributions to the game, his club, and the broader golf community.
The Southwest PGA Teacher of the Year – Jeff Fisher, PGA Director of Instruction at Fisher Bryan Golf Academy at Longbow Golf Club in Mesa, Ariz., has been recognized as the 2024 Southwest PGA Teacher of the Year. A member of the PGA of America since 1998, Fisher has built an extensive resume of professional development, attending a variety of teaching and coaching summits, workshops, and seminars. He has developed a highly successful junior program modeled after prestigious live-in academies on the East Coast, as well as a dual-development program that nurtures both elite and aspiring golfers. Fisher’s influence extends beyond the classroom, with many of his students advancing to top universities and professional levels. Notable alumni include LPGA star Mina Harigae, Arizona State Junior Champion Johnnie Clark, Jr., and LPGA Tour player and Olympian Stephanie Meadow. Fisher has participated in every PGA of America National Teaching and Coaching Summit, multiple Golf Magazine Top 100 Summits, and three Proponent Group National Summits. At the local level, he has contributed to the Southwest PGA Teaching and Coaching Summit committee and even hosted a popular putting session at the Summit held at Camelback Golf Club. Since 2009, Fisher has owned and operated the Fisher Bryan Golf Academy at Longbow Golf Club, where he has built a reputation for offering elite player development programs, group lessons, and recreational golf instruction to hundreds of juniors, adults, and elite players annually. In addition to his teaching, Fisher is a prolific writer with over 50 published articles in outlets such as Golf Tips Magazine and AZ Golfer News. He has also shared his expertise on podcasts like “On the Mark,” offering valuable insights to fellow golf professionals. Fisher’s dedication to junior golf was recognized with the 2015 Southwest PGA Junior Golf Leader Award, and he has been named a three-time Future Champions Golf Top 25 Elite Junior Coach in the USA.

The Southwest PGA Youth Player Development Award – Blake Isakson, PGA Director of Instruction with Perfect Circle Golf at Moon Valley Country Club in Phoenix, has been awarded the 2024 Southwest PGA Youth Player Development Award. This accolade celebrates a PGA Professional who has demonstrated exceptional and outstanding contributions and accomplishments in the realm of youth player development. A PGA member since 2018, Isakson has been a passionate advocate for junior golf for over 20 years, contributing to the development of young players both regionally and nationally. At the Section level, he served for five years on the Player Engagement Committee, where he played a key role in shaping the Southwest PGA’s junior golf programs. He also helped create the Junior Golf Roadmap on the Section’s website, establishing it as a vital resource for parents and golf professionals alike. Locally, Isakson has had a profound impact at Moon Valley Country Club, where he grew the junior golf program from just five participants to over 200 annually. The program serves players of all ages and skill levels, offering both private lessons and group classes. Under his leadership, many of his students have gone on to excel in prestigious events such as the IMG Junior World Championships and US Kids Teen Worlds. Isakson strongly emphasizes the importance of competition in the development process. To that end, he has organized club-level tournaments and PGA Jr League events, providing juniors with opportunities to compete while honing their skills. This year he has expanded these opportunities by taking his top Jr. League players out of state to compete against other teams. Beyond his role as an instructor, Isakson actively contributes to local schools and organizations, mentoring other golf professionals to help them build their own successful junior programs. His dedication to youth development has earned him numerous accolades, including multiple US Kids Top 50 Coach and Master Coach awards, as well as the GameChanger Award for Player Engagement in both 2022 and 2023. This marks Isakson’s first Southwest PGA award, underscoring his commitment to nurturing the next generation of golfers.

The Southwest PGA Bill Strausbaugh Award – Brent Lingel, the PGA General Manager at both Rolling Hills Golf Club and Dorado Golf Course in Tucson, has been honored with the 2024 Southwest PGA Bill Strausbaugh Award. This award is presented to a PGA Member who exemplifies exceptional character, integrity, and leadership, particularly through teaching and mentoring fellow PGA Professionals. A PGA member since 2008, Lingel brings over 17 years of experience as an owner/operator, mentor, teacher and tournament player. This past year he earned PGA Master Professional status, the highest educational designation a PGA Member can obtain. In his role as General Manager, Lingel has successfully stabilized the financial operations at both facilities while also focusing on the growth and development of his staff. He is committed to creating a positive and supportive environment where his team can thrive professionally and personally, all while balancing his devotion to family, faith, and community. He takes great pride in the advancement of his current and former employees throughout their career. Lingel’s service to the Southwest PGA and the Southern Arizona Chapter is extensive. He currently serves as the President of the Southern Arizona Chapter (2023-present) and is a member of the Southwest PGA Board of Directors. Additionally, he has served on several committees in both the Section and Chapter and is a member of the Southwest PGA Foundation Board of Directors. His leadership within the Section is marked by a genuine commitment to mentoring others, and he is deeply invested in helping fellow PGA Professionals achieve their personal and professional goals. Beyond his work on the course, Lingel is passionate about fostering a culture of mentorship, teamwork, and respect. He strives to lead by example, making difficult decisions with compassion, and encouraging constant growth and improvement among his team. His dedication to growing the game of golf is reflected in his long-standing support of junior golf programs, including PGA Jr. League, as well as community outreach initiatives like Birdies for Good. This is Lingel’s fourth award in the Southwest PGA, including the 2022 Southwest PGA Golf Professional of the Year. He has been honored with numerous awards in the Southern Arizona Chapter PGA and is a two-time award recipient in the North Texas PGA.

The Southwest PGA Player Development Award – Justin Bubser, the PGA Director of Instruction for the Tucson Golf Program, has been honored with the 2024 Southwest PGA Player Development Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions and achievements in the area of player development.  Bubser became a PGA member in 2017 and spent seven years at Omni Tucson National Golf Resort & Spa before transitioning to coaching, spending five seasons as Assistant Coach for the University of Arizona Women's Golf Team working with Division 1 athletes. In his current role with Tucson City Golf, Bubser's leadership and mentorship have had a profound impact on both players and fellow golf professionals. As Director of Instruction, he has been instrumental in guiding PGA Associates, mentoring them in areas like lesson planning, event facilitation, group coaching, and communication. He has also played a key role in running PGA programs such as PGA Jr. League, PGA HOPE and the Operation 36 Wingman program, helping young professionals build essential skills while growing the game. Under Bubser's leadership, the Tucson Golf Program has seen significant growth in participation across a range of initiatives. The PGA Jr. League, which serves over 90 kids, and the TGP Elite Program, offering advanced coaching to aspiring tournament players, are just a few examples of his dedication to player development. Additionally, Bubser collaborates with the University of Arizona's Adaptive Sports Program to host adaptive golf clinics, making the game more inclusive for all players. Bubser has also been deeply involved in the Southern Arizona Chapter of the PGA, serving on the board for several years in various leadership roles, including Secretary, Vice President, and President. He was honored as the Southern Arizona Chapter Teacher and Coach of the Year in 2020 and was named Southern Arizona Chapter Golf Professional of the Year in 2023. This recognition reflects Bubser's unwavering commitment to developing both players and professionals, and his ongoing impact on the growth and inclusivity of the game.
The Southwest PGA Professional Development Award – Kevin Reagan, PGA Head Golf Professional at Granite Falls Golf Club in Surprise, Ariz., is the recipient of the 2024 Southwest PGA Professional Development Award. The award is presented annually to a PGA Professional who exhibits commendable additions to the education of PGA Professionals. Reagan, a PGA member since 1998, has spent his entire 26-year career within the Southwest Section. Over the past decade, he has made lasting impacts on PGA education at both the national and sectional levels. As a Board Member and Education Committee Chair for the Southwest PGA, Reagan has been dedicated to mentoring Associates, organizing educational seminars, and expanding networking opportunities within the Section. Reagan previously worked with the Southern California PGA in promoting their “Launch Pad” program, an eight-week educational series designed for Level 1 Associates. He also co-hosted the American Development Model Pilot Education Program, which provided valuable resources to PGA Professionals. Reagan has consistently emphasized the importance of education throughout his career, supporting Associates in their journey to PGA membership. Reagan's influence extends to the development of professional education materials, including the revamped Associate Orientation Manual, which has been distributed to new Associates since 2019. His commitment to growing the game also includes programs like “Cactus Practice” and “On Course Cactus Coaching,” which blend group coaching with on-course instruction to support golfers at all skill levels. This marks Reagan’s second Southwest PGA Professional Development Award, as he previously received the honor in 2021. His continued dedication to advancing PGA education and professional growth has made a profound impact on his peers and the future of the game.
The Southwest PGA Patriot Award – Landyn Lewis, PGA Director of Player Development at the Tucson Golf Program, has been honored with the Southwest PGA Patriot Award. This prestigious recognition is bestowed upon a PGA Professional who exemplifies patriotism through the game of golf and showcases unwavering commitment and dedication to the brave men and women who have valiantly served and protected our nation. A Tucson native, Lewis earned his PGA membership in 2017 and quickly became a driving force in the community. As Program Director for the First Tee of Tucson, he helped the program double in size within his first three years. In his current role with Tucson City Golf, Lewis has expanded his impact by implementing programs that serve not only his members but the broader community as well. Lewis has been deeply involved with PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) since 2016, creating the PGA HOPE Graduate Program. This initiative, known as HOPE36 Wingman, pairs veterans with a “wingman” to continue their golf journey and offers guidance and support as they transition back into civilian life. Lewis’ efforts to integrate PGA HOPE with his other programs have made a significant impact in the lives of local veterans. In addition to his work with PGA HOPE, Lewis founded the Chris Moon Foundation and currently serves as its president. The foundation honors the legacy of Chris Moon, a close family friend who sacrificed a promising MLB career and a University of Arizona scholarship to join the U.S. Army, where he tragically lost his life in Afghanistan in 2010. The foundation provides scholarships to Tucson High School students and financial support to local little league baseball fields and BMX tracks. Since its inception, Lewis has facilitated five golf tournaments in Chris Moon’s honor. Lewis has earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Southwest PGA Player Development Award in 2022 and Youth Player Development Award in 2018. He was also named an Operation 36 Top 50 Coach in 2023 and recognized by Golf Digest as one of Arizona's Best Teachers in 2023. The Southwest PGA Patriot Award is a fitting representation of Lewis’ dedication to both the game of golf and the service men and women who inspire him.
The Southwest PGA Deacon Palmer Award – Robert Spikes, PGA General Manager at El Rio Golf Course in Tucson, Ariz., is the recipient of the Southwest PGA Deacon Palmer Award. Named after Arnold Palmer’s late father who overcame personal obstacles to succeed as a PGA Professional, this award was established by the PGA of America in 2014 and bestows special recognition upon a PGA Professional who personally displays outstanding integrity, character and leadership while overcoming a major obstacle in his/her life. A member of the golf community since 1998, Spikes started his career as a driving range attendant and earned his PGA membership in 2008. Throughout his career, he has made substantial contributions to junior golf, volunteering with organizations such as the Southern Arizona Junior Golf Association, First Tee of Tucson, and the Ricki Rarick programs. Additionally, Spikes has served as a rules official for numerous events and volunteered as a member of the Southern Chapter of the Southwest PGA board of directors. In 2022, while working the first day of the Tucson City Amateur, Spikes suddenly became severely ill and was hospitalized for an extended period. He was diagnosed with Acute Necrotizing Pancreatitis, a life-threatening disease. Despite the grim prognosis, Spikes spent the following five months battling the disease, during which he had to relearn to walk. His resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit helped him overcome these immense challenges. Since his recovery, Spikes has committed himself to being actively involved in the game of golf, playing in as many Section events as possible, and participating in the Troon Summer Interclub, where he competes alongside other professionals. His determination to not let his illness define him, despite continuing to face the lingering effects of the disease, has only strengthened his dedication to the game and to the community. Spikes' commitment to helping others achieve their goals is also evident in his role as a mentor through the PGA Associate Program, where he guides and inspires the next generation of golf professionals. The Deacon Palmer Award marks Spikes' first award within the Southwest PGA and serves as a testament to his remarkable character and leadership both on and off the course.

The Southwest PGA Merchandiser of the Year for Private Facilities – Samantha Sorensen, PGA Assistant Professional at Las Vegas Country Club, is the recipient of the Southwest PGA Merchandiser of the Year for Private Facilities. The award recognizes PGA Professionals who have excelled as businesspersons and merchandisers in the promotion of golf. A graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas PGA Golf Management program, Sorensen earned her PGA Membership in 2020. After graduating, she spent four years at Stallion Mountain Golf Club before accepting the PGA Assistant Professional role at Las Vegas Country Club in 2022. Sorensen’s merchandising philosophy is grounded in understanding the unique needs of her facility and implementing best practices to build a successful and ever-evolving merchandise operation. She is committed to keeping the golf shop fresh, vibrant, and constantly changing to ensure it stands out from the typical retail experience. Her approach encourages members and guests to return frequently, as the shop’s dynamic displays and rotating inventory keep them engaged. In addition to curating a visually appealing environment, Sorensen uses detailed sales analysis to identify the most popular brands and products, which helps her optimize the golf shop's profitability. She spends approximately 90% of her time in the merchandising area, overseeing all aspects of the operation, from buying and invoicing to setting up new displays and maintaining their appearance. She also analyzes sales data, manages inventory coding, and plans future product offerings. The Merchandiser of the Year for Private Facilities is Sorensen’s second award as a member of the Southwest PGA, having been honored in 2022 for her dedication to creating a successful and thriving merchandise operation at Las Vegas Country Club.

The Southwest PGA Merchandiser of the Year for Public Facilities – Aaron Slonim, PGA Assistant Professional at TPC Las Vegas, is the recipient of the Southwest PGA Merchandiser of the Year for Public Facilities. The award recognizes PGA Professionals who have excelled as businesspersons and merchandisers in the promotion of golf. Slonim's career began as a PGA Associate at Spanish Trail Country Club in Las Vegas, where he worked for four years before joining TPC Las Vegas in 2021. He achieved PGA Membership in April 2024. His merchandising philosophy centers around creating a memorable experience for customers, ensuring they leave with a unique keepsake that enhances their connection to TPC Las Vegas. A hands-on leader, Slonim spends much of his time in the golf shop, constantly innovating and refreshing displays to keep the retail space dynamic. He changes the shop's layout twice a month, showcasing new ideas and ensuring the space feels engaging and fresh. This creativity, paired with his deep understanding of customer preferences, has been key to driving the success of TPC Las Vegas' retail operations. Under Slonim's leadership, merchandise sales have reached record highs across all categories, including men’s apparel, accessories, headwear, and golf balls. Notably, he implemented a strategy to sell golf balls exclusively by the dozen, a move that has significantly contributed to the success of the golf shop. The Merchandiser of the Year award marks Slonim’s first honor as a Southwest PGA member, reflecting his dedication and excellence in both merchandising and customer service.

The Southwest PGA Merchandiser of the Year for Resort Facilities – Eric Dettman, PGA Head Golf Professional at We-Ko-Pa Golf Club in Fort McDowell, Ariz., is the recipient of the Southwest PGA Merchandiser of the Year for Resort Facilities. The award recognizes PGA Professionals who have excelled as businesspersons and merchandisers in the promotion of golf. Dettman earned his membership in the PGA of America in 2011 while he was an assistant golf professional at We-Ko-Pa. He was named head golf professional two years later and continues to serve in that capacity. The 36-hole facility that includes the Saguaro and Cholla courses are fixtures on national publications Top 10 lists for best courses in Arizona with Saguaro as No. 1 in Arizona in Golfweek’s Best in State rankings, a distinction it has held for numerous years. Dettman creates his golf shop with a guest-first approach, with a commitment to staying adaptable and informed by both data and feedback. He strives to know his audience as a shopper, the golfer that values both quality and performance while welcoming new opportunities, constructive criticism and suggestions on how to improve the shop. He aims to keep attention to detail through listening directly to guest questions and needs in order to help anticipate their wants while also building a strong and collaborative relationship with brand representatives in order to achieve this. His overall goal is to create a seamless shopping experience where the products guests find enhance their golf experience and also reflect the high-quality, well-known image synonymous with the We-Ko-Pa Golf Club name. This is Dettman’s first award as a member of the Southwest PGA.