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Gordie Smith adds to his legacy with Hall induction – Metro US

Gordie Smith adds to his legacy with Hall induction

Dartmouth’s Gordie Smith is one of only two Nova Scotians to have earned a PGA tour card. And he admits it’s getting harder and harder for Bluenosers to follow in his footsteps.

Smith, one of eight inductees announced yesterday for the 2009 class of the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame, had a banner year in 1988, placing seventh at the Canadian Open and finishing in the 194th spot on the PGA money list.

“In the last 20 years, the game has gone globally and it’s much more difficult now than it was when I played,” Smith said. “It’s very competitive out there and it’s going to be a big challenge for Canadians. You even see it now on the tour.”

There were a half-dozen Canadians on the tour during Smith’s heyday compared to two now. None of this is to diminish Smith’s outstanding career, which began at the Brightwood Golf and Country Club and continued at the University of South Florida before his seven-year foray as a pro.

Butch O’Hearn, the only other Nova Scotian to earn his PGA tour card, is already in the Hall. Smith, who won 37 amateur and five professional tournaments and is now manager of the Ashburn Golf Club, is glad to join him.
“It’s a great way to cap off my career,” Smith said.