Industry News

GPGCSA Presents 2024 Distinguished Service Award

Greater Pittsburgh Golf Course Superintendents Association presented its annual Distinguished Service/ Chris Morup Award at the annual meeting at Sewickley Heights Golf Club on October 8, 2024. During the meeting, Bob Capranica, Irrigation Sales Manager for E.H. Griffith, Inc. was presented the 2024 Distinguished Service Award. This award acknowledges the effort that Bob put into his profession and speaks highly of how well Bob is perceived in the industry. Bob has been an invaluable member of the Greater Pittsburgh Golf Course Superintendents Association for over 40 years, and his contributions to the field are nothing short of extraordinary.

Bob’s work ethic is unparalleled, and his dedication to customer service is truly remarkable. His mission has always been to professionally serve our customers, offering them the best possible solutions for their irrigation needs. This unwavering commitment has not only earned him respect within the industry but has also resulted in him receiving multiple Toro sales and service awards, including the prestigious Toro Irrigation Master Salesperson Award. These accolades are a testament to Bob’s significant impact and his exceptional dedication to his work.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bob Capranica is one of the most genuine and sincere individuals you will ever meet. His integrity and passion for his work make him a deserving candidate for this honor. Bob’s contributions have left a lasting imprint on our industry, and he continues to be a beacon of excellence and professionalism.

The GPGCSA DSA

This award was first presented in 1992 to Chris Morup. Chris graduated from the Penn State Turf Program and during the years 1968-1988 was Superintendent of golf courses in Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and Philadelphia. In November of 1991, Chris broke his neck when a large branch from a tree he was taking down fell the wrong way. He spent the last nine years of his life paralyzed from the neck down and dependent on a respirator. He died at home on September 18, 2000. His incredible faith and his positive, optimistic attitude were an inspiration to all his family and friends. Chris also played an instrumental role in the merging of the two previous Superintendent’s Associations and forming the Greater Pittsburgh GCSA in 1983. This award was created to honor Chris for the person in the Pittsburgh area best exemplifying integrity in the turfgrass profession and/or notable personal achievements for the GPGCSA membership. •