Wykagyl’s Caddie Program

Since the early 1900s, caddies have played an integral role in golf at Wykagyl. In the 1920s, Clare Briggs (see profile on page 72) frequently used the perspective of the caddie in his humorous comic references to golf at Wykagyl and Val Bermingham was introduced to golf in 1898 as a caddie at Pelham Country Club (see profile on page 70).

Today, Wykagyl’s caddie program is as strong as ever and includes 70+ caddies with 35+ in the program for over 10 years. Their knowledge of the slopes and undulations of Wykagyl’s greens prove invaluable to players, particularly when the speed of the greens are typically rolling at 12+ on the stimpmeter. In recognition of our program and to support our caddies, Wykagyl members have been generous supporters of the MGA Caddie Scholarship Fund (MGACSF), formerly known as the Westchester Golf Association Caddie Scholarship Fund.

The MGACSF is a charitable nonprofit organization that provides financial support and need-based scholarships to college-bound high school applicants. The Fund was established in 1956 by local golfing great, Willie Turnesa, one of the most successful amateur golfers in US history and his close friend, Udo Reinach.

Their appreciation and love for the game of golf ignited their desire to give back to Westchester’s young caddies. Along with the generosity of Sally Francis of the Apawamis Club, the inspiration for the MGACSF’s mission was formed such that no qualified candidate with financial need to cover college tuition would ever be turned away. Sixtysix years later, MGACSF is proud that its mission remains strong and has, to date, over 2,900 caddie scholar alumni.

This past year, for the 11th time, Wykagyl was awarded the MGACSF Gold Club Award which is an honor bestowed on Westchester clubs whose members have donated more than $50,000 annually. Currently Wykagyl has eight high school students in its caddie program receiving scholarships. In addition to the MGACSF, Wykagyl has set up a separate endowment fund in memory of beloved member, John Pinto, who died from cancer in February 2020. John dedicated more than ten years of service to the MGACSF as Chairman of the Investment Committee and Treasurer before assuming the role as President, a position he held from 20022006. Between the MGACSF and The John Pinto Endowment Fund, Wykagyl members have contributed over $800,000 since 2005 resulting in 94 scholarships.