2025 Yearbook

21 A regular feature column written by IGA Foundation board member Mark Gambaiana, 'Up and Down the Iowa Golf Scene' is designed to take the reader beyond the headlines and scoreboards to share stories of those who help make Iowa golf so rich and rewarding. Profiles will spotlight those who advance the game through volunteerism, service, extraordinary achievement, competition, human interest and the many other dimensions of golf in Iowa. 'Up and Down' the Iowa Golf Scene with Mark Gambaiana World Traveler - Jason Knutzon Jason Knutzon, a former Iowa State golfer, has built a remarkable international career, playing in nearly 40 countries and achieving notable victories, including the 2004 Macao Open against Padraig Harrington. Based in Altoona, Iowa, he spent 15 seasons on the Asian Tour and reached a World Golf Ranking of 254th. Now operating the Golf Barn in Altoona, Knutzon shares his knowledge with young golfers and returned to competition in 2023, tying for sixth at the Macao Open. He aims for a spot on the PGA Tour Champions, emphasizing the importance of treating golf like a business while maintaining a love for the sport. Wizard of Fun - Allison George Allison George, owner of Toad Valley Golf Course in Pleasant Hill, is dedicated to making golf fun for everyone and advancing women's roles in the sport. She has transformed the family-run course into a diverse complex with an 18-hole layout and innovative facilities, launching initiatives like family programs and "Ladies Night" to encourage participation. Recognized for her contributions to the industry, George has receivedmultiple awards for promoting inclusivity in golf. After overcoming a serious accident, she focuses on maintaining a healthy work- life balance while ensuring a welcoming environment for future generations at Toad Valley. A Lifetime on the Links - Chad Proehl Chad Proehl, introduced to golf as a child in Atlantic, Iowa, turned a childhood passion into a decorated career as a player and teacher—earning induction into the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame in 2021 after successes that include multiple Iowa PGA titles, 16 National PGA Club Professional Championship appearances, PGA Tour and Champions Tour starts, and leadership roles at several Iowa clubs; for 17 years he’s been a PGA Teaching Professional at Sugar Creek Golf Course in Waukee, where he especially enjoys developing juniors, and he continues to compete while citing family and mentoring as his greatest rewards.