There are those long-time members of The Bahamas golfing fraternity who lament the way the sport has slipped in recent years. One such is the venerable Carlton Harris, a former national team member on multiple occasions and one of the mentors of the golden era of golf in the country. Recent elections in the Bahamas Golf Federation (BGF) resulted in a new administration, headed by Craig Flowers. Harris in particular, is looking forward to the new top executive of Bahamian golf turning the sport around.
In a recent communication, Harris detailed some history of golf in the country which should cause reflection on the part of Flowers and his executive team.
"Golf has been in the doldrums for a few years now and before it can be repaired, the cause must first be examined. One of Freddie's (Higgs - the late former president and golf stalwart) prime accomplishments was using his position as the only Bahamian golf director to speak on leveled terms with other directors to obtain good rates for Bahamian golfers. Freddie encouraged members to join the federation and strengthened the organization. He solicited playing rates exclusively for members. Private golf clubs took out memberships with the federation thus strengthening the BGF.
"In many instances, certain clubs that really wanted nothing to do with the federation, affiliated themselves with the BGF just in order to benefit from the rates. After Freddie's passing, there was as expected, a lull in the progress of golf in The Bahamas. New presidents did not have the clout of Freddie and the abuse (certain clubs becoming a part of the BGF only for the rates and with no intention to make a meaningful contribution) worsened.
"One group in particular from East Nassau took advantage of the situation and came to a general elections (meeting) with a slate of nominees and a handful of proxy votes. Officers to their liking, with no real interest in the development of the game of golf, were elected," informed Harris.
The Grand Bahama-based Harris has bitter memories of the circumstances he speaks to. He is passionate about golf and believes that the agenda in place now is conducive to "forward movement." Harris' decision to speak out is an indication of the frustration the state of affairs in golf has brought about. He is indeed one of those voices that ring with conviction, truth and the love of the sport.
The task of Flowers and his executives is to carefully evaluate the national golf situation, inclusive of interviews and conversations with icons of the sport such as Harris.
"There are yet a few of us left with golfing knowledge who will certainly assist Craig (Flowers) with his program if called upon," said Harris.
He is convinced that the golfing product in the country could become vibrant again and recapture its reputation in the region as one of the powers of the Caribbean and Americas. He speaks fondly of the Young Lions of the 1970s and the "source" of youngsters from which to draw. Other than the lead "lions" (Greg and Phil Maycock, Vernon Lockhart, Chris Harris and Mike Rolle), he saluted Frazier Granderson, Shane Gibson, Eric Gibson Jr., Robin Nichols, Tyrone Hepburn and Dwayne Hepburn.
Yes, Harris believes there can be a return to golfing glory in The Bahamas.
"With key persons having left the scene, the task becomes greater. The new president (if he has the time) can adequately pick up the pieces and move forward."
So said Carlton Harris.
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