The obvious outgrowth of such thinking was the formation of an association of local golf clubs to organize and administer these competitions.
On Feb. 5, 1897, seven men gathered at the Market Street National Bank for the express purpose of founding the Golf Association of Philadelphia.
Samuel Y. Heebner alone represented Philadelphia Cricket Club, Alan H. Harris being unavoidably absent.
The objective of the fledgling association was simplicity itself: to promote interest in the game of golf and to regulate all competitions between member clubs.
The difference was significant: Associate Member clubs had the right to be represented at the annual meeting by two delegates, each with one vote.
With the passing of the years, this distinction between the two classes of membership would blur and finally, with a revision of the by-laws, be eliminated.
Dr. Henry Toulmin, Belmont, was elected vice president, and Alan Harris, of the Cricket Club, secretary-treasurer.
The schedule features events available for players of all ages (Junior, Amateur and Senior) and skill level (championship and handicap).
At the season's conclusion, GAP awards “Player of the Year” honors on four levels: Amateur, Junior, Senior and Super-Senior.