Free golf lessons are available from PGA professionals throughout the UK during BAE SYSTEMS National Golf Week from 7 – 15 April. Colin Montgomerie has pledged his support to the campaign for the third consecutive year. In a bid to find tomorrow’s golfing superstars, Monty is encouraging thousands of beginners and newcomers to telephone 08706 003330 where operators are standing by to put enthusiasts in touch with their three nearest participating professionals.
Over 22,500 people took part in 2000 and the cumulative figure since 1997 may now exceed 100,000.
Commenting on this year’s campaign, Monty said: “Golf really is a game for the whole family. There aren’t many sports where mum, dad and the children can spend a couple of hours together, enjoying the fresh air and getting some exercise – and there’s nothing to stop grandparents joining in either!”
A series of other events are planned, all with the aim of coaxing newcomers on to the fairways and putting greens for the first time.
One of those – the Midlands Golf Show at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham on 8 April – will see a host of celebrities including Noel Hunt who be entertaining visitors with his widely acclaimed trick golf show.
Another celebrity giving the thumbs up to BAE SYSTEMS National Golf Week is Jane Sixsmith who has pledged her support for the campaign’s objectives. Britain’s top female hockey player will be swapping her stick for a club and joining other beginners to give golf a go.
According to Sandy Jones, chief executive of the PGA, this year’s campaign is even more significant as it coincides with two major events. “Not only is this the centenary year for the Association,” he said, “it is also Ryder Cup Year. In September, golf fever will really grip the country when the Ryder Cup comes to The Belfry and there will also be a series of celebrations to mark the 100th birthday of the PGA.”
He went on to explain how the game is going back to its grass roots level in order to encourage more youngsters and families to take up golf. “Everyone should be given a chance to have a go at golf and BAE SYSTEMS National Golf Week sets out to do just that. You’re never too old or too young to start and we’re confident that we’ll see a record number of people taking to the fairways for the first time ever.”
Throughout BAE SYSTEMS National Golf Week, equipment is provided free of charge and enthusiasts will also be given the opportunity to purchase a customised 7 iron club from the PGA Collection at £9.95 – half the usual price.
Further details about BAE SYSTEMS National Golf Week can also be found at www.pganet.net or by calling the Professional Golfers’ Association on 01675 470333.
Professional Golfers’ Association www.pganet.net