St. Francis Links' Clause honored as International PGA Pro of the Year

Jeff Clause, director of golf and operations at St. Francis Links, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course near Port Elizabeth, South Africa, was awarded the first-ever International PGA Professional of the Year award by the PGAs of Europe.

Clause was honored at the group's annual dinner Nov. 18 in Murcia, Spain. While in Spain for the dinner, Clause also attended the two-day conference in support of the members of The PGA of South Africa playing in the International Teams championships.

"Coming to St. Francis Links, starting a new Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course and receiving this award keeps the motivation and appreciation for the great game of golf at its highest level. I am humbled," said Clause.

The PGAs of Europe have awarded many professionals within the region since 1992 but expanded their recognition efforts with the International Award in order to honor worthy professionals working and living outside of Europe.

Clause was also named South African PGA Professional of the Year in 1995 and 2001.