The 10 most-influential individuals.

These North Carolina residents have a major impact on the game, according to the Golf Panel.

1. Johnny Harris Charlotte

   A real-estate developer and president of Quail Hollow Club, he was instrumental in bringing the PGA Tour and the 2017 PGA Championship to the Queen City.

2. Peggy Kirk Bell Southern Pines

   At 90, the owner of Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club and Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club is stil considered one of the game's most respected teachers.

3. Jim Hyler Raleigh

   President of the United States Golf Association, the former bank executive helped make the 1999 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 a financial windfall.

4. John McConnell Raleigh

   McConnell Golf owns six Tar Heel courses, including Raleigh Country Club.

5. Tom Fazio Hendersonville

   Pre-eminent golf architect of his generation, he has designed 18 courses in North Carolina.

6. Jack Nance West End

   He's executive director of the state's main amateur organization, Carolinas Golf Association.

7. Don Padgett II Pinehurst

   The president of Pinehurst Resort runs the most famous golf destination in North Carolina.

8. Bobby Long Greensboro

   He helped revive the...