The Golf Course Builders Association of America (GCBAA) has announced that China-based Forward Management Group (FMG) has become its first international Charter Member. Charter Members are those who have a vested interest in the continuing success and growth of the GCBAA and have expressed their support by making a one-time minimum contribution of $10,000 above and beyond their annual membership dues.

Receiving strong international support is very important in widening the overall scope of our organization, GCBAA Executive Director Paul Foley said. Our industry has stretched around the world and the GCBAA uses the presence of its international members to support those efforts.

FMG was founded in 2000 in response to development needs in China. The company's mission is to dedicate and promote the game of golf with the goal of becoming a leader in China's golf industry.

FMG is the only company in China whose scope of work covers all golf-related businesses, golf course construction, golf course design, golf course management, event organization and industry management.

It was one of the first companies in that country to start a golf course design business in addition to constructing more than 10 golf courses in China. In 2002 it added golf club management to its list of services and has since managed 11 golf clubs while consulting several others.

Working with the GCBAA Foundation and its partner National Recreation and Park Association, FMG is funding the Sticks for Kids program in China as a way to promote the sport to youth.

With the addition of FMG, GCBAA now has a total of 48 Charter Members.