BTA: ‘Celebrating The Shared Legacy In Golf’
The Butterfield Bermuda PGA Tour Championship ”concluded with historic moments celebrating the shared legacy of Bermuda and the Caribbean in golf,” the BTA said.
A spokesperson said, “The Honourable Kim Swan, JP MP was awarded the first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award by the Bermuda Tourism Authority [BTA]. His award presentation was followed by a milestone victory for the Caribbean, as Puerto Rico’s Rafael Campos became the first Caribbean Champion of the Butterfield Bermuda Championship PGA Tour, claiming the coveted Bermuda Triangle Trophy.
“The Caribbean connection was further emphasised with the presence of CARICOM representatives, including Prime Minister Mitchell of Grenada, head of Caricom, who joined Bermuda’s Premier at the tournament. Representatives of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation [CTO] were also on-island to witness the event, which underscores Bermuda’s strong ties to the region, particularly as the island advances its bid to upgrade its CARICOM membership from Associate to Full.
“The award recognised Kim Swan for his lifelong contributions to the sport of golf, spanning his trailblazing playing career and his impactful work in politics and on industry boards, which have significantly shaped Bermuda’s golf legacy. Swan has been an advocate for making golf more accessible and promoting Bermuda as a premier golfing destination, using the sport as a platform to foster youth development and community engagement.
Reflecting on the honour, Kim Swan, JP, MP remarked: “This award is humbling and reminds me of 1987 when I hired Bermuda’s first two women golf professionals and staged an International Ladies Pro Am in their honour – in the spirit of the power of belief, perseverance and in the potential of all – I envisage us hosting the LPGA Tour Pros in Bermuda someday. Golf has been my life’s passion, not just as a sport but as a means to create opportunities for all people and to showcase Bermuda’s beauty and culture to the world.”
Wayne Caines, Chairman of the Bermuda Tourism Authority, praised Swan’s enduring influence: “Kim Swan has been a trailblazer in every sense, from his pioneering golf career to his dedication to making golf more inclusive. His vision and commitment have elevated both Bermuda and the region on the world stage. And his work inspires a legacy that will resonate for generations to come.”
Tracy Berkeley, CEO of the Bermuda Tourism Authority, highlighted how this recognition aligns with Bermuda’s National Tourism Plan: “Kim Swan’s life’s work perfectly embodies the principles of Bermuda’s National Tourism Plan. His contributions reflect the importance of connecting our cultural and sporting heritage with opportunities for community growth and inclusivity. We are proud to honour him during this extraordinary championship.”
A spokesperson added, “Kim Swan’s career has been marked by a commitment to breaking barriers—first as a golfer competing internationally and then as a leader dedicated to preserving Bermuda’s golfing history and expanding its accessibility. His influence continues to inspire young Bermudians, particularly those from underserved communities, to see the sport as a pathway to opportunity and growth.
“Rafael Campos’ victory in the Championship is a groundbreaking moment for the region. The 2024 Butterfield Bermuda PGA Tour Championship’s grand finale marked the first time a Caribbean player won the Bermuda Triangle Trophy and only the second time a Puerto Rican—following the legendary Chi Chi Rodriguez—claimed a PGA Tour title. This achievement underscores the tournament’s growing significance as a platform for celebrating regional and global golf excellence.
The Chairman of the Bermuda Tourism Authority Wayne Caines’ full statement follows below:
“Ladies and gentlemen, as we close another spectacular chapter of the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, we pause to honour a cornerstone of Bermuda’s golfing legacy—a man whose passion, dedication, and vision have elevated the game of golf in our island and beyond. It is my privilege to present the Lifetime Achievement Award to The Honourable Kim Swan, JP MP—a name synonymous with excellence, perseverance, and inspiration in Bermudian sports. His remarkable journey is not just his own; it has shaped the foundation upon which Bermuda’s golfing success now thrives.
A Trailblazing Career
Kim Swan’s career has been a series of firsts and triumphs. He holds the historic distinction of being the first Bermudian to compete on the prestigious PGA European Tour. His name is etched in local and international records, with victories including three Bermuda Open Championships and representation in global competitions such as the World Amateur Team Championship, the World Cup of Golf, and the Dunhill Cup. As a collegiate golfer at Troy State University, he clinched multiple championship titles, cementing his status as a formidable talent.
A Visionary Leader and Mentor
Kim’s legacy goes beyond trophies. As former President of the Bermuda Professional Golfers Association, he nurtured a new generation of talent, ensuring young Bermudians could follow in his footsteps. He is also Bermuda’s most enthusiastic golf historian. Through coaching, articles, and golf management ventures, Kim tirelessly championed Bermuda as a premier golfing destination.
Connecting the Past to the Present
Without Kim Swan’s foundational work in building Bermuda’s golf infrastructure, the Butterfield Bermuda Championship—this flagship event showcasing our island to the world—might never have been possible. His vision and influence brought Bermuda to the global stage, inspiring pride in our nation’s talent and fostering opportunities for future generations.
A Legacy That Inspires
Kim Swan embodies the spirit of excellence, resilience, and community. His contributions remind us that greatness isn’t just measured by accolades but by the lives impacted and paths paved for others. Today, we celebrate not only his achievements but his enduring legacy for all Bermudians. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in honouring a true trailblazer and ambassador of Bermuda. It is with pride we present this Lifetime Achievement Award to The Honourable Kim Swan, JP MP—a champion in every sense of the word.”
