The Central New York PGA announced this month the induction of Tony Biata and Eric Manning into its Section Hall of Fame. The duo will be honored at the 20th annual CNY PGA Section Special Awards and Hall of Fame Banquet at Drumlins Country Club on Dec. 7.

 

Biata and Manning earned Hall of Fame honors for their contributions to the Section and their dedication to the game of golf.

 

Manning, Cortland native and assistant golf professional at Elm Tree Golf Course, is an accomplished golfer and considered one of the top players in the Section. Manning, who won the 2022 Section and Senior Player of Year awards, has captured numerous Section titles including an unprecedented seven career Section Championships.

 

Eric Manning

 

Off the course, Manning has made many contributions to Section by serving on committees and volunteering. For two years, Manning has been involved in the PGA Jr Camp program. He has served as the assistant coach of the Cortland State women’s golf team while also devoting time to golf instruction for students of all ages.

 

Biata has been a PGA Professional for more than 31 years with 17 as a member of the CNY PGA. He earned the Section’s highest honor, Golf Professional of the Year, twice (2005 and 2010). During his tenure with the CNY PGA, Biata served on every Section committee and was elected Section President (2008-2010).

 

Tony Biata

 

Biata has raised awareness for many charitable causes, most notably his tireless efforts working with Folds of Honor. He started Folds of Honor fundraising in 2008 and played a pivotal role in the program’s growth. Biata was also an instrumental team member in uniting PGA HOPE and the Folds of Honor Foundation.

 

Congratulations to Eric and Tony on your 2023 Hall of Fame induction!