Canterbury Golf is pleased to announce that James Barclay of Ellesmere Golf Club has been elected President, following last night’s meeting of the Canterbury Golf Executive Committee.
James steps up from the role of Vice President and succeeds Dion Kerr (Clearwater), who has led the Executive since 2024.
James joined the Canterbury Golf Executive in 2021 and has served as Vice President since 2024, giving him a strong grounding in the Association’s governance and strategic direction. He brings considerable financial and business expertise to the role, having held several finance and commercial positions during his career. He is currently the Business Services Manager at Addington Raceway & Events Centre.
James’s commitment to golf goes back to the club level. He has served on the Ellesmere Golf Club committee in a range of roles, including Club Captain, and continues to represent Ellesmere on the Canterbury Central Committee. That hands-on club experience gives him a valuable understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Canterbury’s affiliated clubs.
“It’s a real privilege to be elected President of Canterbury Golf, and to follow the many people who have given so much to this role since 1941,” James said. “Golf in Canterbury is in good heart, and with our new Strategic Plan now in place, we have a clear direction for the years ahead. My focus will be on delivering that plan, supporting our clubs, which are the foundation of everything we do, and ensuring the Association remains in a strong and sustainable position for the future. I’d like to thank Dion for his leadership over the past two years, and I look forward to working alongside the Executive, our staff and our clubs to keep growing the game across the region.”
Joining James in the leadership of the Executive is Craig Prior of Waimairi Beach Golf Club, who was elected as the new Vice-President at the same meeting. Craig joined the Canterbury Golf Executive in 2024 and brings strong club and competition experience to the role. He served as Club Captain at Waimairi Beach until recently and continues as the club’s Woodward Cup team manager, giving him valuable first-hand insight into Canterbury’s interclub competitions.
With his election, James becomes the third President from Ellesmere Golf Club, following Roger Gilbert (1987–88) and Stuart Brannigan (2003–04). The role of President carries a long and distinguished history. Since 1941, 59 individuals have held the position, with three (A.R. Blank, C.G. Penlington and C.J. Ward) each serving on two separate occasions. James becomes the 60th person to lead the Association.
Canterbury Golf extends its sincere thanks to Dion Kerr for his leadership, commitment and many hours of service as President.
Congratulations to both James and Craig, and best wishes for their terms.
To view the full list of past Canterbury Golf Presidents – Click Here.
For more information about Canterbury Golf’ history – Read Here.
