Owen Hester( Managing Director , Green Dynasty) (R) presenting the Outstanding Contribution to Golf award to Dilip Thomas (Director – AVT) at AGIF Golf Awards
Indian golf leaders were in the spotlight at the inaugural Asian Golf Industry Federation (AGIF) Awards held in Kuala Lumpur on October 29, as DLF Golf & Country Club, Dilip Thomas, and Champika Sayal were honoured for their remarkable contributions to the game.
The DLF Golf & Country Club received the Distinguished Contribution to Growing the Game Award, recognising its pivotal role in shaping Indian golf through world-class facilities, global-standard tournaments, and its support for domestic and junior players. Located in Gurugram, the club has hosted some of Asia’s most prestigious events — including the Hero Indian Open, Hero Women’s Indian Open, and the 2025 International Series – Asian Tour, which featured global stars such as Bryson DeChambeau.
Owen Hester presenting the Distinguished Contribution to Golf awards to Tusch Daroga ( Vice – President , DLF Golf & Country Club ) ( Center) and Karan Bindra ( Director, K&A Golf) ( L)
Mr. Dilip Thomas, a Chennai-based industrialist and long-time golf administrator, was presented with the Lifetime Contribution to Golf Award for his leadership across the IGU, International Golf Federation, and Asia Pacific Golf Confederation, and his instrumental role in founding the National Golf Academy of India, plus supporting over 100 Indian pro golfers in the early stages of their careers over the past 30 years.
Owen Hester (R)presenting the Women in Golf Leadership award to Champika Sayal ( Secretary General , WGAI ) ( L)
Mrs. Champika Sayal, a pioneering advocate for women’s golf, was also honoured for her leadership role at Women’s Golf Association of India (WGAI) in promoting and mentoring women players across India and starting and continuing the Hero Women’s Indian Open for the past 17 years.
AGIF President Chris Gray said, “The DLF Golf & Country Club, Mr. Thomas, and Mrs.
Sayal have each played defining roles in the growth and global recognition of Indian golf.
Their dedication continues to inspire the next generation.”