Deane Beman to receive Byron Nelson Prize
Irving, TX, May 4, 2011 – The Salesmanship Club of Dallas announced today that Deane Beman will be awarded the 2011 Byron Nelson Prize at the HP Byron Nelson Championship Opening Ceremony on Tuesday, May 24.
Beman served as the commissioner of the PGA TOUR from 1974-1994 and is considered the architect of the TOUR’s business model. Under his leadership, nearly all PGA TOUR events devoted themselves to charity efforts.
“During my years as commissioner, I always pointed to the HP Byron Nelson Championship as the event other sponsors should use as a model in their own communities,” Beman said. “Byron Nelson was always held up as the gentleman and golfer who should be emulated by our members. For me, there is no greater honor than receiving a prize which bears his name.”
The Byron Nelson Prize, underwritten by philanthropist T. Boone Pickens, is awarded to a person in the golf world who embodies the same philanthropic spirit for which Byron Nelson was known. A nominating committee comprised of leaders in the golf industry, golf media and previous Prize recipients submits candidates each year and the final selection is made by a committee of the Salesmanship Club of Dallas.
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to honor a man who has given so
much to the game of golf and to charitable endeavors around the country,” said Salesmanship Club of Dallas president Mike Massad, Jr. “Deane’s vision during his 20 years as commissioner not only sculpted the TOUR’s current business model, but also created the charity model of each tournament giving back from its profits. Without Deane’s drive and ambition, our own greater cause might not be where it is today.”
Each year the Salesmanship Club makes a $100,000 contribution to the charity of the Prize recipient’s choice. Beman has chosen The Duvall Home to receive the charitable contribution. Located in Glenwood, Florida, the Duvall Home provides residential and day training programs to individuals with developmental disabilities.
The 2011 HP Byron Nelson Championship will be played May 23-29 (Memorial Day weekend) at TPC Four Seasons Resort Las Colinas in Irving. The Opening Ceremony will be held at noon on Tuesday, May 24 in the Verandah at the Four Seasons. The ceremony is free and open to the public.
