PGA Atlantic is proud to announce the induction of the late Jerry Byers into the PGA Atlantic Hall of Fame, recognizing his outstanding career, leadership, and lasting contributions to the game of golf throughout Atlantic Canada. At this year’s Awards Gala, held during the PGA Atlantic Industry Show in November, Jerry will be inducted into the PGA Atlantic Hall of Fame in both the Player and Builder categories.
Born on March 29, 1952, in Kentville, Nova Scotia, Byers was an exceptional athlete whose accomplishments extended well beyond the golf course. Before beginning his career as a PGA Professional, he enjoyed a successful professional hockey career that saw him drafted 12th overall by the Minnesota North Stars in 1972. He went on to play within the organizations of the Minnesota North Stars, Atlanta Flames and New York Rangers, while also becoming well known throughout Nova Scotia for his time with the Nova Scotia Voyageurs. His hockey career later took him overseas, where he played in Switzerland, Austria and Japan from 1980 to 1984.
Throughout the summers during his professional hockey career, Byers continued to develop his passion for golf, working as an Assistant Professional at Ken-Wo Golf Club in Kentville under PGA Professional Boyd Lockhart.
Following his playing career in hockey, Byers dedicated himself fully to the golf industry. He spent 14 years as a Golf Professional at Hartlen Point Golf Club in Eastern Passage, while also operating his own business, Jerry Byers Golf Shop.
His commitment to the PGA and the growth of the profession extended beyond his work at the club level. In addition to his many years of service on the PGA Atlantic Board of Directors and various committees, Byers served as President of PGA Atlantic from 1999 to 2000, providing leadership to the association and its members during his tenure.
In 1998, Jerry and his wife, Ernestine, purchased Olde Town Golf Course in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. Together, they owned and operated the facility for nine seasons, continuing Jerry’s lifelong commitment to the game and to creating opportunities for others to enjoy golf.
Byers earned numerous honours throughout his remarkable athletic career, including induction into the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame. His accomplishments in both hockey and golf reflected not only his extraordinary athletic ability, but also the dedication, work ethic and team-first mentality that characterized his life.
Jerry passed away on December 25, 2006, at the age of 54. His legacy continues through his family, the many people whose lives he influenced, and the golf and sporting communities he helped strengthen throughout Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada.
PGA Atlantic is honoured to recognize Jerry Byers as a member of the PGA Atlantic Hall of Fame, celebrating a PGA Professional whose achievements, leadership and character left a lasting mark on the Association and the game of golf.
Article written by the PGA of Atlantic Canada.
