News was shared recently that GolfPEI Executive Director, Mark McLane is leaving his position to take on responsibilities as a new MLA (representing Cornwall-Meadowbank). Mark held the position of E.D. for GolfPEI for 9 years, helping build the Island as one of Canada’s leading golfing destinations. (The job is now posted if anyone is interested!)
I am not shy about my love of golf on the gentle Island; like seafood and sea views, there is an abundance of quality golf on PEI. And for value-conscious players, there is amazing value to be had. Check out my overview of golf on PEI including course reviews from many of the most popular courses. Mark McLane has played an important role in my infatuation of golf on PEI.
As someone who was new to journalism and golf writing, I appreciated the time that Mark took to speak with me – whether it was a detailed interview about GolfPEI and his vision for growing the golf and tourism industry on PEI, or in our annual chats at the Toronto Golf and Travel Show. I loved seeing commercials for GolfPEI during The Masters, another McLane decision to invest in the assets of the Island. Through my insight about the scope of services that Mark helped build up for GolfPEI, I was able to research a buddies trip for a week in 2015 where we played 10 courses in 6 days. The Green Card is something travelers should seriously consider around the holidays; the value is exceptional. His team helped craft an itinerary, including booking tee times, and even suggested a centrally located rental home. Full service!
GolfPEI is the marketing arm of Golf for Prince Edward Island and operates in a consortium model where 20 courses share marketing efforts. Mark is moving on from 20 bosses to over 150,000. But I assume the transition to an MLA will be quite seamless; Mark is exceptional at building relationships. He has a proven track record at creating a shared vision and, at the end of the day, has a deep passion for his home province.
On behalf of public golfers across Canada who visit the Island regularly to play nationally recognized courses like Crowbush Cove or Dundarave or felt fortunate to have stumbled across many of the Islands’ hidden gem courses like Stanhope or Belfast Highland Greens, thank you Mark McLane. You have worked to make these courses more available and accessible to the entire country. Your honesty and availability to a new journalist is sincerely appreciated. I wish you continued success as you take on a much broader role; PEI has a great public servant and ambassador in you.
Thank you, Mark!
