Franklin, TENN –

The Tennessee Section PGA is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Distinguished Career Award: Johnny Bridgeman, Jim Blackmore, and David Crafton.

The Distinguished Career Award (DCA) is the highest honor the Tennessee PGA can bestow upon a current or past member of the Section. More than a recognition of longevity, the award celebrates PGA Professionals who embody the values of character, integrity, and professional excellence while leaving a lasting mark on their clubs, their communities, and the game of golf. Honorees are evaluated on service to their facilities, leadership within the Association, community impact, teaching ability, and competitive record.

Johnny Bridgeman, PGA – A fixture at Brentwood Country Club for nearly four decades, Bridgeman served as Head Professional from 1987 to 2018 and Director of Golf from 2019 to 2024, after beginning his career at Cookeville Country Club. At Brentwood, he built one of the region’s premier junior golf programs, helping guide numerous players who contributed to Brentwood High School’s six state championships. His leadership extended well beyond the club, serving as Middle Tennessee Chapter Officer (2005–2010) and TNPGA Section Officer (2013–2020), including terms as Section President and Honorary Member. On the national stage, Bridgeman contributed to the PGA as District 3 Director (2018–2021) and chaired the National Awards Committee. He continues to serve the game as a member of the Tennessee Golf Foundation Board of Directors.

Jim Blackmore, PGA – Currently at The Virginian Golf Club in Bristol, VA, Blackmore has dedicated his career to excellence in player development, leadership, and service. A multiple award winner at both the Chapter and Section levels, his honors include TNPGA Golf Professional of the Year (2005), Merchandiser of the Year (1995, 2003), and multiple Youth Player Development Awards. He also served as TNPGA Section President (2006–2008) and contributed on numerous committees, including Awards and Distinguished Awards. Founder of the Blackmore Golf Academy, now The Virginian Golf Academy, he has taught thousands of lessons, including to PGA Tour winner Mike Hulbert. A three-time Division III All-American at Ohio Wesleyan University, Blackmore was inducted into the Ohio Wesleyan Hall of Fame.

David Crafton, PGA – A longtime leader within the Tennessee Section, Crafton has served in every Memphis Chapter officer position, on the TNPGA Tournament Committee, and as a Section Officer, including Section President. His accolades include TNPGA Golf Professional of the Year (1999), Horton Smith Award (2001), Bill Strausbaugh Award (2004), and back-to-back Merchandiser of the Year honors (1998–1999). A skilled competitor, Crafton won tournaments in the Section for more than 12 consecutive years and was a regular in the Tennessee Cup Matches. While at Hillwood Country Club, he gave more than 200 lessons, most notably working with future FedEx Cup Champion Brandt Snedeker. He has also contributed to the growth of the game as a member of the Tennessee Golf Foundation Board of Directors.

Please join us in congratulating Johnny Bridgeman, Jim Blackmore, and David Crafton on this well-deserved honor recognizing their outstanding service, leadership, and lifelong contributions to the game of golf.

Kelsey Ludwigsen, Communications Manager