Golf Business News – AGW Annual Dinner offers nights of celebration, surprise and honor
The 2025 annual dinner of the Golf Writers Association, held on July 15 at the Royal Portrush Golf Club, provides an unforgettable evening for friendship, industry recognition and some surprises.
The event brought together key figures from the golf world during the week of the 153rd Open Championship.
AGW Secretary Matt Cooper has heartfeltly started the lawsuit, thanks to those who supported him at his inauguration, including Bernie McGuire, treasurer Peter Higgs, chairman Philip Reid, R&A and European Tourism Group. Special thanks to Brian McLaughlin, who served as host for BBC golf reporter Iain Carter and handled the role as Ambomb.
Guests were asked to sit down in time for dinner, which was the surprising request of the night: the arrival of 2024 AGW golfer Rory McIlroy. He joined McLaughlin for a fascinating Q&A session, which won applause.
This is the fifth time McIlroy has won a prestigious award, more than any other player in his 74-year history. He received the honor after a great season in 2024, including two Rolex series, four runner-ups and a sixth Dubai champion.
That night, I also respected several people’s outstanding contributions to golf. Catriona Matthew received Michael Williams’ outstanding golf award presented by Michael’s son Roddy; 2018 Open champion Francesco Molinari was named the winner of the Arnold Palmer Open Award; Keith Waters, who retired this month from the European Tour’s chief operating officer, received recognition from the sport of commemorative Quaich.
R&A’s media services manager Mary Flanagan paid a tribute at the media center and Scott Crockett, director of communications for the European Tour who was unable to participate. The final toast was presented to veteran journalist Dermott Gillece, marking his 40 and last work appearance at the Open and was presented with Quaich honors presented by R&A CEO Mark Darbon.
