HKPGA Founder Joe Hardwick Passes Away Aged 91

We are very sad to report that Joe ‘The Pro’ Hardwick, the very popular founder of the Hong Kong Professional Golfers’ Association (HKPGA) and a huge advocate for the development of golf in Hong Kong, has died at the age of 91.

Joe, who was the head professional at the Hong Kong Golf Club from 1965 to 1995, was a true professional in every sense of the word and it was his role in the foundation of the HKPGA in 1970 that would have long-lasting effects that are felt to this day. Together with Peter Tang, Joe helped provide a platform for golf to thrive in the city, setting up a series of events that would form the Order of Merit, and representing Hong Kong at events globally, including the World Cup of Golf. “

Joe was a pioneer of the game in Hong Kong and he meant a great deal to me and all the other young pros who were starting out in their careers,” said Chairman of the HKPGA Dominique Boulet, who played on the Asian Tour and who now is a commentator for LIV Golf. “He was always incredibly helpful and generous with his time, giving us great encouragement and belief. For that I will always be thankful.”

Starting with just a handful of golfers, the HKPGA now comprises nearly 200 members, while it is testament to his standing that local professionals today compete for the Joe Hardwick Trophy at the HKPGA Championship, while any club pro that makes the cut at the Hong Kong Open is awarded the Joe Hardwick Cup.

Born in England but recruited from Royal Calcutta Golf Club, Joe arrived in Hong Kong in August 1965 with his wife Shirley and two-month old daughter Joann, who followed in her father’s footsteps becoming a teaching professional at Fanling. Joe’s second daughter, Nicola, was born in Hong Kong two years later.

Joe’s reputation extended well beyond Hong Kong’s shores and just months before his retirement from the Club, he was awarded honorary membership of the British Professional Golfers’ Association.

After leaving Hong Kong, Joe divided his time between London and Portugal’s Algarve, where he continued to play golf well into his 80s.

Our most sincere condolences to Shirley, Jojo and Nicole. Joe will be dearly missed by all of us at the HKPGA.