Col. Charles M. Thrash, USAF (Ret.)

Charles “Charlie” Thrash entered the Myrtle Beach Golfing Community in 1996 as the General Manager of Bay Tree Golf Plantation. During the next two decades his foresight and initiatives had a lasting impact on Grand Strand golf. Under his leadership Bay Tree became recognized as “Tournament Central” – developing and hosting professional, collegiate, high school, and international junior events. These tournaments exposed thousands of young golfers to the wonders of the golfing opportunities in the Myrtle Beach Area. Bay Tree’s exceptional history, and its efforts in bringing new golfers to the Grand Strand, resulted in Bay Tree Golf Plantation being selected as the first recipient of the Myrtle Beach Area Golf Course Owner’s Association Golf Course of the Year.

Charlie’s second decade in Myrtle Beach golf was spent as the Director of Coastal Carolina University’s PGA Golf Management Program. Under his guidance, the program excelled; becoming the largest such program in the nation. He also played a major role in CCU acquiring their own golf course. The General James Hackler Golf Course became instrumental in supporting both the PGA Golf Management Program and CCU’s athletic and student recreational activities. In 2013 Charlie was recognized for his support of young golfers by being selected as the Father of the Year by the National Father & Son Team Classic.

Colonel Thrash served in the United States Air Force for 26 years. He is a decorated combat pilot whose awards include the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Legion of Merit.