The finalists for the 2026 BIGGA Awards have been confirmed, with the winners set to be crowned at the BIGGA Celebration at BTME in Harrogate on Tuesday, 20 January.
The free-to-attend event, taking place in the Royal Hall from 4.30pm and sponsored by Bernhard Academy, is among the key moments of BTME week and offers members and their guests a chance to come together to acknowledge the achievements of colleagues from across the turf industry.
The BIGGA Awards were established to recognise the exceptionally high standards, professionalism and dedication demonstrated by greenkeepers throughout the year. Hosted once again by Sky Sports presenter Sarah Stirk, the ceremony shines a light on those who deliver outstanding work on their courses, from major championship preparation to ambitious renovation projects and contributions that strengthen the wider profession.
Three BIGGA Awards will be presented on the night, with the greenkeeping teams at Burnham & Berrow Golf Club and Nairn Golf Club going head-to-head for the Championship Greenkeeping Performance of the Year (sponsored by Bernhard Academy), while the Greenkeeping Project of the Year (sponsored by Price Turfcare) will be a three-way battle between Royal Birkdale, Royal Aberdeen and Bearsden Golf Club in Glasgow.
The Outstanding Contribution of the Year Award (sponsored by Kress), which recognises exceptional service to charity, the profession or wider society, has no shortlist and the recipient will be revealed on the night.
The awards will also feature the announcement of the Amenity Sprayer Operator of the Year, the induction of new BIGGA Life Members, and recognition of the latest Master Greenkeeper.
The event will also celebrate the incredible finale of an inspiring personal challenge, as Jack Percival completes his epic 300-mile run from Epsom, concluding in Harrogate. The senior greenkeeper at Royal Automobile Club is undertaking the run to raise awareness around mental health and funds for Percy’s Homeless Hub and the Greenkeepers Benevolent Fund.