Local organizers of the AJGA Junior at Centennial, which took place at Centennial Golf Club in Medford, Ore., July 16—19, 2012, have earned the Most Improved Tournament Award from the American Junior Golf Association. The Most Improved Tournament Award is given annually to a tournament committee that has built a model AJGA championship and gives tournament participants and parents a superior experience.

Each year, the AJGA presents awards to the tournaments with the best individual media coverage, Junior-Am fundraising tournament, charitable giving, volunteer base and hospitality. The AJGA also recognizes the year’s most outstanding golf professional, superintendent and general manager, as well as the best new tournament, best Invitational and overall tournament of the year.

              
“After watching the tournament the past two years, the community wanted to see it become bigger and better so we formed a committee,” said Anne Jenkins, senior vice president of the Medford Visitors & Convention Bureau. “Having the strength of a committee to raise funds and create ideas gave this tournament the opportunity to rise to the next level.”

               
The committee’s goal was to make the tournament “Uniquely Medford” by incorporating local elements to showcase the community beyond the golf course. After a welcome by Mayor Gary H. Wheeler, players learned more about the local area through a “Putt-a-Pear activity”, which highlighted the pear industry specific to the region. The event also included a special parents’ reception featuring local fare such as food from Medford-based Harry and David, cheese and wine from nearby vineyards.

               
“We wanted to share with players and parents the community and enhance their experience in Medford,” said Angela Wood, director of sales at the Medford Visitors & Convention Bureau. “The committee came up with great ideas of how to make this event special and memorable.”

               
The AJGA Junior at Centennial returns to the AJGA schedule in 2013 and will be played Aug. 12—15 at Centennial Golf Club.

Complete list of 2012 Tournament Awards.