Over 170 local people enjoyed complimentary lessons and ‘Level Up’ sessions at the Golf At Goodwood Academy Open Weekend over 2 – 3 April. Aimed at introducing new people to the sport and growing the game, the Academy Open Weekend offered a chance for those interested in taking up golf to come and have a go, under the expert guidance of the Academy’s professionals.
Helping to make golf more accessible, the weekend showcased the innovative Level Up programme for juniors, which is open to children over five years old. The programme encourages children to not only learn and develop their golfing skills but also rewards and develops children’s life skills such as confidence, fitness, leadership and team work. As a result of the Open Weekend, 11 new juniors joined the programme.
Another initiative that was well received over the weekend was Get Into Golf, which provides a chance for those entirely new to the game to start playing without investing in any specialist gear, with lessons provided to all comers during an affordable four-week programme.
The event was attended by three Golf At Goodwood ambassadors – recent Sunningdale Foursomes winner Marco Penge, European Challenge Tour professional Darren Wright and Holly Aitcheson, Ladies European Tour Professional – who were on hand to demonstrate their drives and answer questions.
Chris McDonnell, PGA Professional and Academy Manager commented; “The weekend was a great opportunity for the local community to experience the game of golf and everything Goodwood has to offer. Over the two days we welcomed 170 people who enjoyed individual, Get into Golf and Junior lessons with music, refreshments and games adding to the fun, relaxed atmosphere.
“We are really committed to growing the game of golf in Southern England and this fun initiative really allowed us to showcase the experience people receive when visiting Golf At Goodwood.
McDonnell concluded: “I would also like to thank our Golf At Goodwood Ambassadors for providing an exhibition of golf shots and sharing their journey of becoming elite golfers with juniors and their parents.”
Clare Lawrence, who attended the event with her two children, praised the event. She said; “Both my children, Harvey (11) and Dexter (5) absolutely loved it. Everyone was really good with them and they managed to join in with two sessions as well as the driving range in between. It was a really lovely day out.”
The Academy Open Weekend was an example Goodwood’s ongoing commitment to engaging the local community, as part of its sustainability strategy.
For further information on the upcoming mixed and female Get into Golf four week courses, individual tuition and the Junior Level Up programme, visit www.Goodwood.com
Golf At Goodwood Academy https://www.goodwood.com/golf-at-goodwood