MEMBER MEMBER
ZACHARY TUREK, PGA
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Welcome to the TSPGA's Member Spotlight, where we shine a light on the exceptional PGA of America Tri-State Section professionals elevating the game of golf. This feature delves into our members' stories, achievements, and dedication to golf, their families, and life. Join us in learning more and celebrating the outstanding individuals who embody the spirit and excellence of the PGA of America Tri-State Section.
ZACHARYTUREK,PGA
Director of Golf at Westmoreland Country Club
What is your go-to Music?
That's a loaded question! I have a wide variety of music on my phone, ranging from country to hip-hop and rock 'n' roll. But if I had to pick a go-to, it would be '80s pop/rock.
Billy Joel is my all-time favorite artist.
What is your go-to Food?
Anything Italian—I could eat pasta for every meal of the day.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
ZACHARY TUREK, PGA
What is your go-to type of Movie?
I really enjoy action movies with humor. I could watch Die Hard or Beverly Hills Cop on repeat 365 days a year.
What is your go-to Snack?
Candy, I love sweets! Twizzlers, Starburst, Crunch bars, and so on. I probably have the diet of a toddler.
What is your go-to Club in your bag?
I don’t really have a go-to club in the bag; I hit them all equally poorly.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. My first job was when I was eighteen at Kennywood.
What is the best part of your game?
In years past, I would have said my iron game, but now I’d say it’s my recovery skills. With how poorly I’ve driven the ball the last few years, you have to get good at recovery; otherwise, you’d quit if you were playing from where I’ve been.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
ZACHARY TUREK, PGA
What is the best round of Golf?
It’s not my lowest competitive round, but the 2020 Head Pro-Assistant Pro at Allegheny Country Club stands out. I made seven birdies in regulation, then cheered on Talon Kriebel as he birdied the two playoff holes to secure our victory.
Can you name two of your favorite golf courses that you've played on and what makes them unique to you?
I’m a fanatic when it comes to C.B. McDonald and Seth Raynor. Easily my two favorites are The Creek and Piping Rock. I’m not sure there’s a better hole in golf than #6 at The Creek
Where did you grow up?
I tell everyone I’m from the McKeesport area because no one has ever heard of Liberty Borough, which is a small town just outside of McKeesport in the South Allegheny School District. How small is Liberty Borough? The town doesn’t even have a stoplight.
Tell us a little bit about your family.
I’ve been married to my wife, Lori, for nearly 12 years. We met when we were 14. We have two sons: Hawkins (4) and Palmer (3).
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
ZACHARY TUREK, PGA
What initially drew you to the game of Golf, and how did you get started?
Outside of my mother taking group lessons before I was born, there isn’t anyone in my family who plays golf. I was at a friend’s 13th birthday party at the Practice Tee in Pleasant Hills and had that moment we all experienced when we hit that first shot right out of the middle of the clubface. Next thing you know, I fell in love with the game and never looked back.
Please give us some insight into your prior positions. My first true Assistant Golf Professional job was at Longue Vue Club, working for Steve Antenucci. I then moved on to Shannopin Country Club, which has some of the greatest members I’ve ever been around. At 27, I got my first Head Professional job at Youghiogheny Country Club, just five miles from where I grew up. I later had the opportunity to follow the legendary Dan Braun at Indiana Country Club. Now, I’m the Director of Golf at Westmoreland Country Club, where I get to carry on the legacy of great professionals like Johnny Bulla, Ed Furgol, and Jim Ferree.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
ZACHARY TUREK, PGA
What made you decide to pursue a career in the PGA of America, and how long have you been a PGA member? Because I can’t sing or dance. Kidding! No, I chose this path because I love the game and what golf stands for. There’s no better feeling than sharing your passion with others and helping them enjoy the game we love. I was elected to membership in 2016.
Talk about being a PGA of America member, what it means, and having PGA after your name.
Being a PGA Professional holds immense meaning for me. It represents more than just a title; it’s a brotherhood that sets us apart as the true experts in our field. The men I looked up to when I first embarked on this path were passionate champions of the PGA of America, and their influence inspired me to want to be part of that prestigious association. For the associates beginning their journey toward membership, there’s no greater honor than seeing 'PGA' after your name. It’s a distinction that signifies not just a level of achievement but a commitment to excellence that truly separates us from the rest.
TRI-STATE
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
ZACHARY TUREK, PGA
What wisdom can you offer about golf careers and the importance of becoming a PGA member/achieving membership status?
The days are long, and the hours can feel overwhelming, but the rewards far outweigh the challenges. This industry requires a true servant’s heart, yet I firmly believe there is no better profession to be a part of. We have the incredible privilege of sharing our passion with people from all walks of life, impacting their experience with the game we love. While the journey to completing your membership may seem daunting at times, the sense of accomplishment and pride that comes with it is immeasurable and truly one of the most fulfilling achievements in our field.
If you could play one round of golf with any three people (alive or deceased), who would it be with? It would be with my dad and two sons.
TSPGA Accolades/Recognition:
2020 Head Pro-Assistant Pro Champion (w/Talon Kriebel)
2023 TSPGA Merchandiser of the Year (Private)