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For the good of the game

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Honor role

Joan Smith, who received an award for her many years of volunteer work at the Buick Invitational, is just happy to be part of the team.

BY AL PETERSENPublished: January, 2009

Smith was named the 2008 PGA Tour Volunteer of the Year (Photo: Eddie Meeks).
Joan Smith believes in long-term relationships. How else to explain her marriage of 59 years, her association with the San Diego County Junior Golf Association for 34 years and her volunteer work at the Buick Invitational at Torrey Pines for 41 years and counting?

“Joan’s dedication is unsurpassed,” said Tom Wilson, the executive director of the Century Club of San Diego that
administers and promotes the Buick Invitational. “Anyone who served under Joan has seen what a genuine person she is.”

While volunteers often work in the background, Smith’s years of spirited service were brought into the spotlight last November when she was named the 2008 PGA Tour Volunteer of the Year during a ceremony at the World Golf Village in Florida.

“I was so excited. I’ve met so many wonderful people through my experiences with junior golf and golf in general in San Diego that I was a bit overwhelmed,” Smith said. “It was very emotional, but I think it’s a privilege to be able to help with worthy causes. The PGA Tour thrives on volunteering and charity work. I’m just a small part of it, but I’m very honored.”

Smith, 78, got involved in the local golf scene in 1966 by doing clerical work for the San Diego County Junior Golf Association, which was co-founded in 1952 by her mother-in-law, Lou Smith. She started working with the staff at Junior World in 1968 and continues to be amazed at the event’s growth and stature.

“I remember typing letters — and remember, there were no computers at the time — and sending out about 8,000 around the world,” Smith recalled. “It was quite a process. I think that’s why I wear glasses now.”

For the past 41 years, Smith chaired or co-chaired the Walking Scorers Committee at the Buick Invitational. When the event returns to Torrey Pines in February, she will have a new volunteer role in the business office.

“I always look forward to the tournament every year,” she said. “I’ve met so many friends over the years through the tournament and golf. It’s nice to see all the familiar faces. I think the volunteer community has a special bond.”