Liberty Corner, N.J. (Feb. 5, 2025) – The United States Golf Association (USGA) has named Rodney Lingle, CGCS, as the recipient of the 2025 USGA Green Section Award. This prestigious award, presented annually since 1961, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to golf through their work in turfgrass management.
A Lifetime of Innovation in Golf Course Maintenance
Rodney Lingle has had a groundbreaking career in golf course management. He started in 1974 at Hattiesburg Country Club in Mississippi and later became the superintendent at Memphis Country Club, a position he held for 37 years. During his tenure, he developed innovative solutions that transformed putting surface quality and influenced golf course maintenance nationwide.
Lingle’s contributions extend beyond his work at individual courses. His experiments with ultradwarf bermudagrass led to widespread adoption of this turfgrass variety, improving golf greens across the country. His research and expertise benefited courses like Streamsong, Atlanta Athletic Club, Pinehurst Resort & Country Club, and the RTJ Trail.
Revolutionizing Turfgrass and Equipment
One of Lingle’s most notable achievements was the development of Mach 1, an advanced turfgrass variety that he patented. This grass is now used worldwide, enhancing putting greens for countless golfers.
In addition to turfgrass innovations, Lingle also created a new greens mowing brush system after a manufacturer discontinued a previous model. His invention, the Greens Perfection Brush, was later patented and licensed to Toro, a leading golf course equipment manufacturer. This breakthrough improved golf course maintenance practices and introduced new techniques for grooming greens.
A Mentor and Leader in Golf Course Management
Beyond his technical contributions, Lingle has been a dedicated mentor. He hosted 10 ultradwarf surface management workshops at Memphis Country Club, welcoming hundreds of golf course superintendents to share his knowledge and best practices. His generosity and willingness to teach others have earned him deep respect from peers, university researchers, and golf industry professionals.
USGA’s Tribute to Lingle’s Contributions
USGA CEO Mike Whan praised Lingle’s impact on golf course maintenance:
“Everyone in golf needs to know the name of Rod Lingle – and follow his example. Rod has shaped careers, changed the way we think about golf course maintenance, and has never been satisfied with the status quo. But there isn’t a greater legacy you can leave than to be counted as a revered teacher and friend. Golf is better because Rod cares, and that’s why he’s deserving of this award.”
Expressing his gratitude, Lingle stated:
“I am very honored to be named the 2025 USGA Green Section Award winner, as working with the USGA Green Section through the years has been the most rewarding experience of my career.”
Rodney Lingle’s influence on turfgrass science, equipment innovation, and mentorship has left a lasting legacy in the golf industry. His work has improved golf courses across the world, making greens more playable and sustainable. As he continues his career at Escondido Golf and Lake Club in Texas, Lingle remains a respected figure in golf course management. His dedication to excellence and innovation makes him a deserving recipient of the 2025 USGA Green Section Award.
