A JUNIOR team from Bromsgrove Golf Centre has won the inaugural GolfSixes Academy Competition for the West Midlands region.
Competing against four other golf clubs – Churchill & Blakedown, Hatchford Brook, Warley Woods and Fulford Heath – the 12-strong Bromsgrove team, led by Bromsgrove PGA professional Rob Laing, fought off stiff competition to take the top spot in this unique inter-club experiment.
GolfSixes is run by the Golf Foundation, the nationally recognised charity which helps young people from all backgrounds to enjoy the benefits of the sport.
The Golf Foundation and England Golf pilot project – which follows the new European Tour format as seen on TV in May – ran nationally over a number of weekends, with a total of 32 clubs taking part in seven regions of England.
Comprising youngsters from 5 to 11 years of age, each team fielded six players each match, playing six holes over the five courses in their region, with every hole’s points counting towards the final results.
For many of the children this was the first time that they had played in a golf competition.
PGA professional Laing said: “Our juniors have really enjoyed taking part in the GolfSixes series, it’s given them a great introduction into the competition side of the game but over a shorter format which suits their ages and ability.
“I am really proud of the way the team behaved and performed at each event and look forward to being part of future GolfSixes leagues.
Paul Aitkens, Golf Foundation’s regional development officer for the West Midlands, added: “The clubs from this region have played a fantastic part in this national pilot project and really helped the Golf Foundation.
“The boys and girls have clearly loved these events and we all hope the GolfSixes league in this region can be expanded next year so more clubs have the chance to enjoy this exciting team format.
“Certainly, the Golf Foundation would like to thank all the club PGA Professionals from this area, the parents and the kids themselves in making GolfSixes a great success here.
“We are also hugely grateful to the European Tour for allowing us to embrace the GolfSixes branding in this way and for their ongoing support.”
