Chris Petersen, President of Tom Irwin, Inc.
has been honored as the recipient of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New England’s 2019 Distinguished Service Award.

Chris has been a tireless advocate of superintendents throughout New England and his generosity of spirit has been appreciated by all who have been in his presence. As one nominator stated, “Chris Petersen and Tom Irwin have been huge supporters of the Golf Course Superintendent, GCSANE and any and all fundraising efforts including, but not limited to, the S&B and before that the Turf Research Tournament”. The Tom Irwin company has been the title sponsor of the UMass Alumni Turf Group’s Dr. Joseph Troll Classic golf tournament since its inception. Tom Irwin company has also been the top sponsor of the Association’s Scholarship and Benevolence tournament since its beginning over 25 years ago.

The Tom Irwin company and the Petersen name is synonymous. Chris grew up in the business, following in the footsteps of his father, Jack Petersen. Chris’ son, Ben is the third generation of the Petersen family to be an integral part of the company.

Though being the president of the company requires time in the office, he still spends time with company clients and provides technical and professional advice to his clients and others in our industry. He is always reaching for ways to help those in our industry succeed in their lives and be successful at their facilities.

Chris and his company have been top-level supporters of virtually all the events and programs in our professional world. Superintendents, Assistants and those in need have benefitted from the generosity of the Petersen family and the Tom Irwin company. He honored his father by establishing the Jack Petersen Fund which distributes financial aid to those who need a helping hand.

Another nominator stated in part “On a national level he has worked hard to change the attitude of companies to invest in their people and superintendents.”

Chris Petersen is a leader. An innovator. An inspirational individual. These traits, along with his contributions to our profession and the turfgrass industry make him the outstanding choice for this year’s Distinguished Service Award.