In close collaboration with the Martinez Family, the award recognizes Denise Martinez, a true pioneer among PGA professionals.
The Southwest PGA Foundation, in close collaboration with the Martinez Family, is proud to announce the establishment of the Denise Martinez Horizon Award for Philanthropy & Leadership. According to Southwest PGA Foundation CEO Michael Haywood, Denise Martinez was a true pioneer for PGA professionals, embodying the spirit of innovation and dedication long before such qualities became widely recognized. Denise was always proud of the fact she was never “given” a position, but rather earned each one on her own merit.
This prestigious award will be presented annually to a deserving individual who exemplifies Denise’s spirit, generosity, and understated nature, all of which defined her as one of the Southwest PGA’s most esteemed pioneers. The recipient, a recognized leader in the community, will demonstrate selfless efforts in giving back, fostering growth, and building a stronger community and a better world around us.
Denise spent eight of her formative years in the Republic of Panama, where her father was stationed with the U.S. Air Force. In 1974, she and her family relocated to Arizona following her father’s return from Vietnam. From 1976 to 1980, Denise attended McLintock High School in Tempe, Arizona, where she distinguished herself as a star player on the school’s girl golf team. Her outstanding achievements included winning two State Championships and breaking the State Record in 1979. She was also honored with the prestigious Joe Selleh Award and inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame in 1980.
After graduating from high school, Denise received a golf scholarship to play for the University of Arizona, where she earned four varsity letters from 1981 to 1984. During her time at the U of A, she also pursued degrees in Business and Public Administration, supported by both a golf scholarship and an academic scholarship. Denise’s accomplishments on the golf course included finishing as the runner-up in the PAC 10 in her final collegiate tournament. In recognition of her remarkable achievements, she was inducted into the U of A Hall of Fame in 2004, with her plaque proudly displayed alongside those of other U of A luminaries such as Lorena Ochoa, Annika Sorenstam, and Jim Furyk in the U of A’s Wall of Fame.
Denise’s sister, Debby, shared her thoughts on the award:
“Our family is deeply moved and humbled by the generosity being bestowed upon our beloved sister Denise. We can think of no finer group of people or organization than the Southwest PGA Foundation to honor her memory and recognize a worthy recipient annually, celebrating her most cherished qualities.”
Throughout her distinguished career, Denise served as the Director of Golf at Forest Highlands Golf Club in Flagstaff and later at Silverleaf Country Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. She was one of the few female Directors of Golf in the United States, breaking barriers and inspiring others with her leadership. In 2008, Denise accepted the role of Director of Golf at the Martis Camp Club in Truckee, California. Tragically, she passed away in September of that same year in Truckee.
Former Southwest PGA Foundation Chairman Greg Leicht perfectly captured Denise’s impact: “This is a wonderful way to honor Denise and her family! She consistently volunteered her time and talent to our foundation initiatives, embodying the spirit of giving back.”
The Foundation extends its sincere gratitude to the following individuals and organizations for their invaluable contributions in making this opportunity possible:
- Debra Martinez, Sister
- Mrs. Martinez, Mom
- Matt Bailey, PGA, Forest Highlands Golf Club
- Mark Johnson, PGA, Martis Camp Club
- Gus Jones, PGA, Martis Camp Club
The Foundation plans to announce its inaugural recipient shortly, with the first award presentation scheduled for the 2025 Southwest PGA Annual Meeting this June in Scottsdale.
