Anders Mankert, a Swedish-born PGA Professional who owns and runs Leicester Golf Centre, has been awarded the British Empire Medal in the King’s Birthday Honours List.
Mankert, who became only to the 65th PGA Member to be awarded Master status earlier this year, has capped off an amazing year by being honoured by The King for his services to golf and to people with disabilities.
Because of his Swedish heritage, Mankert’s medal had to be an honorary one. It will be presented to him by the Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire, at a ceremony date to be confirmed, followed by a trip to Buckingham Palace next year.
Mankert set up Leicester Golf Centre over a decade ago on the site of the former Oadby Golf Club located inside the centre of Leicester Racecourse. The centre features a woodland golf course, a 16-bay Toptracer range, a space-themed adventure golf course and a café, with the venue attracting families, children of all ages, complete beginners or more experienced players aiming to hone their skills.
Thirty years ago, Mankert became the first golf professional to coach totally blind or visually impaired people to play golf and he has become the first ever PGA Professional to become a patron of the England and Wales Blind Golf Association to mark this effort. Many of his blind pupils have gone on to become highly proficient at the game, competing in tournaments around the world.
Through his specially developed coaching techniques, Anders has helped players of all abilities better understand the golf swing, while also supporting professionals globally to learn how to coach individuals with sight loss. His work continues to promote inclusion, participation, and joy through golf— not only in the UK but around the world.
Mankert said: “I am greatly honoured by the award of a BEM from the King and am looking forward to receiving it once the medal has been made in the next few months. My kids can even have their weddings in St Pauls Cathedral one day now I’m told!”