Tag Archive for: BIGGA’s

BIGGA’s presidential nominee leaves amazing legacy

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BIGGA’s presidential nominee leaves amazing legacy: A former Scottish First Division referee who officiated at European matches before becoming head greenkeeper at Buchanan Castle has accepted the nomination to become president of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) in 2025.

Ronnie Myles, 67, has immediately stepped into the role of BIGGA Vice President, supporting John Keenaghan for the remainder of his term. Ronnie will then formally be appointed BIGGA President at the BIGGA Annual General Meeting, taking place in January.

BIGGA’s presidential nominee leaves amazing legacy

BIGGA’s presidential nominee leaves amazing legacy

Ronnie said: “I was absolutely flabbergasted to be asked to become BIGGA President. Having been a member of greenkeeper associations for more than 50 years, I feel very proud and honoured to be asked to represent BIGGA in this way.

“This year I hope we’re able to enhance the profile of greenkeepers and continue the progression of our association, which has come a long way over the last 10 to 15 years. Fifty years ago greenkeeping was thought of as a dead end profession, but now, there are real opportunities that come with greenkeeping and you have the chance to build a great career.”

Ronnie began his career at East Kilbride Golf Club in 1971 and he would move on to Cathkin Braes, Erskine, Helensburgh and Scarcroft in West Yorkshire, before finally settling at Buchanan Castle, where he worked until his retirement in 2022.

Ronnie was a stalwart of the BIGGA West of Scotland Section for over 20 years, acting as chairperson and secretary. He was vice-chairperson of the BIGGA Scotland and Northern Ireland Region before being appointed the Region’s first President in 2023.

Despite his retirement, Ronnie continues to work seasonally at Stirling Golf Club and is an active member of the BIGGA Scotland Legacy Club, which seeks to offer support and guidance to the next generation of greenkeepers.

Away from greenkeeping and Ronnie had a remarkable career as a high level match official, once running the line for an Old Firm game before being selected for six European Cup matches, including a hair-raising trip to East Germany. Remarkably, Ronnie also spent two seasons as Broxi Bear, the matchday mascot of Rangers Football Club.

As BIGGA Vice President and President, Ronnie will act as an ambassador for the association, representing BIGGA at various events throughout the year. He will also join the BIGGA Board of Management and utilise his experience to guide the board in their decision making.

Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO, said: “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Ronnie throughout my 13 years with BIGGA and I know how warmly he’s thought of in BIGGA Scotland and Northern Ireland, where he’s a popular and well-known figure.

“When he was proposed as BIGGA President 2025 the nomination was received enthusiastically by the BIGGA Board of Management and I’m looking forward to working alongside him. The coming year stands to be a crucial time in the history of our association as we seek to reshape our membership offering and build a structure that provides even more support and advice to greenkeepers at every stage of their career.”

You can read more about Ronnie’s career on the BIGGA website

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Brent Downs becomes BIGGA’s 90th Master Greenkeeper

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Brent Downs becomes BIGGA’s 90th Master Greenkeeper: Otter Creek director of agronomy Brent Downs has become the 90th Master Greenkeeper since the certification’s inception in 1990.

In doing so, Brent, 43, is just the 36th person to possess both Master Greenkeeper and Certified Golf Course Superintendent classifications, two of the highest accolades available to experienced golf greenkeepers on either side of the Atlantic.

Brent Downs becomes BIGGA’s 90th Master Greenkeeper

Brent Downs becomes BIGGA’s 90th Master Greenkeeper

Of the moment he was told he had been successful in achieving Master Greenkeeper status, Brent said: “It was amazing and there were a lot of different emotions. I know the journey to get there and a lot of people have walked it before me, so it was equal parts shock and gratitude. The elation, thankfulness and introspection came later.”

Although a resident of Indiana in the Midwest United States, Brent attributes much of his success to experiences gained during spells in Australia and the United Kingdom. Having interned at Loch Lomond Golf Club in 2007, Brent has become the fourth Master Greenkeeper to be associated with the Argyll & Bute course, following in the footsteps of Ken Siems, David Cole and Janne Lehto.

“Not a whole lot of people get the opportunity to intern in Scotland and Australia at the beginning of my career,” said Brent. That just changed my perspective and my worldview so much. It was the first time I ever heard about Master Greenkeeper, because even though there are only 90 of us, four of them are in some way tied to Loch Lomond Golf Club – Ken Siems and David Cole, who were my bosses at the time, and now Janne Lehto and me are Master Greenkeepers 89 and 90.”

After word of Brent’s achievement was circulated to his fellow Master Greenkeepers, he was flooded by congratulations.

“I’m proud of the part I played in this, but you don’t ever accomplish anything like this on your own,” said Brent. “It takes a village and I’m grateful for the Master Greenkeepers that mentored me, coached me and calmed down – they just kept encouraging me to stay with it.

“The minute Deb [Burnett, BIGGA Learning and Development Manager] sent out that email, I don’t think I’ve ever received so many congratulations. It was at that moment I realised what a community or family Master Greenkeeper is.”

To qualify for the Master Greenkeeper Certificate, a candidate must have at least 10 years’ experience working as a greenkeeper including three years as a course manager, head greenkeeper or superintendent. Certification includes the completion of a rigorous assessment programme that covers all aspects of golf course management.

Master Greenkeeper is a mark of distinction and is highly respected in the golf industry, signifying the holder has achieved the highest level of professional expertise with a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of golf course management.

You can find out more about Master Greenkeeper on the BIGGA website, www.bigga.org.uk

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BIGGA’s mental health campaign

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BIGGA’s mental health campaign: The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) has launched a campaign that will see the membership organisation combat a recognised rise in mental health struggles among golf club staff.

BIGGA has pledged to create 100 mental health first aiders during 2023, who will receive training that will give them the skills to support golf greenkeepers and other clubhouse staff through any difficulties they may be experiencing.

BIGGA's mental health campaign

BIGGA’s mental health campaign

Poor mental health is one of the biggest challenges facing society today. A much-quoted fact is that 75% of deaths of men aged 50 and under are due to suicide, making it the biggest cause of death in that age bracket. The greenkeeping industry itself has been rocked by several tragic losses in recent years and in 2021 BIGGA undertook a survey that revealed 80% of greenkeepers had worried about the mental health of a colleague.

Working environments and money concerns are major causes of stress and mental health problems and BIGGA is working alongside golf’s governing bodies to improve governance and working practices at golf clubs. Stronger, more positive and respectful working environments should help relieve some of the undue pressures placed upon staff at present.

To further support those working in the golf industry, BIGGA has launched its campaign to train 100 mental health first aiders across the country. The training course provides the first aiders with knowledge to help them recognise signs or signals that colleagues or friends may be experiencing difficulties and empowers them to direct others towards available help.

The cost of the course is being met by BIGGA with support from The R&A and participants will receive a certificate from Mental Health England. In addition, participants will receive three years’ ongoing training and support from Mental Health England.

The opportunity to get involved is open to BIGGA members, including greenkeepers and trade representatives who spend much of their time on the road, visiting greenkeeping teams.

The first course will be held in February at Edgbaston Golf Club and further events will be hosted around the country, helping to build a national network of mental health first aiders.

The campaign is being led by BIGGA’s Steve Dudley-Brown, himself a former greenkeeper and course manager with 25 years’ experience in the industry.

Steve said: “During my career as a greenkeeper, I experienced several of my colleagues having mental health difficulties. It’s a scary situation knowing that you have someone in front of you and they are upset and afraid. You want to try and support them the best you can. This training course will give people the ability to understand a little more about what the person is going through and point them in the right direction for help.”

For more information or to register an interest, email steven.db@bigga.co.uk

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BIGGA’s world-leading education programme

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BIGGA’s world-leading education programme: The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) has revealed that preparations are underway for the return of the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition (BTME) to Harrogate in January 2022 with the launch of Proposal to Present for Continue to Learn.

A key component of BTME, Continue to Learn is recognised as one of the world’s leading greenkeeping education events, drawing more than 3,000 delegates each year.

BIGGA's world-leading education programme

BIGGA’s world-leading education programme

The content of the programme is decided upon by BIGGA members who participate in the Members’ Choice process, whereby interested speakers are invited to pitch content for seminars and workshops and members then select what they would like to see on the Continue to Learn programme.

Continue to Learn 2022 is anticipated to be a hybrid event, combining in-person learning and online sessions following the incredible success of Continue to Learn 2021, which was hosted entirely online due to the coronavirus pandemic.

BIGGA Head of Learning and Develop Sami Strutt said: “As we begin the planning for Continue to Learn 2022 we are inviting Proposals to Present from across the industry. We are looking for those who have stories to tell, perhaps from their pandemic experiences, renovation projects, research and development, personal health and wellbeing and, of course, all things agronomy-related.

“Taking the programme online in January 2021 allowed us to attract attendees who, under normal circumstances would not have been able to make the trip to Harrogate. Many of the oversees attendees claimed in their feedback that they would be attending BTME and Continue to Learn in future and that’s an incredible affirmation of the hard word that goes into hosting the event each year.

“We are entering an exciting period where we can reimagine the traditional methods of delivery, considering ways to make it more accessible to those who are unable to attend while ensuring we deliver the same quality and quantity of education expected from the Continue to Learn education programme.”

Anyone interested in contributing to the Continue to Learn 2022 education programme can submit a Proposal to Present by 25 April 2021 at https://continue-to-learn-2022.cfp.lineup.ninja/

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Introducing BIGGA’s volunteers

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Introducing BIGGA’s volunteers: The Open 2019 is heading to Sandwich in Kent this July and the British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association has revealed which members have been selected to join the volunteer support team that will help maintain playing standards throughout the event.

Each year The R&A requests BIGGA’s assistance with the championship and this will be the fourth time a volunteer team of BIGGA members has attended an Open at Royal St George’s, having also helped out in 1993, 2003 and 2011.

Introducing BIGGA's volunteers

Introducing BIGGA’s volunteers

BIGGA members who join the support team are given unprecedented access to golf’s greatest championship, supporting every match with bunker-raking duties.

The bunkers at Royal St George’s are among the most famous in golf, with the giant ‘Himalaya’ on the 4th hole proving an intimidating test, not just for the golfers who land in the hazard, but also the members of the support team who will tidy up the sand afterwards.

Every full BIGGA greenkeeper member is eligible to apply for a place on the team and over the years there have been incredible memories made by support team members.

Phillip Snellin of Donaghadee Golf Club was a team member at Royal Portrush in 2019. He drew the final match of the championship and had a money-can’t-buy view as Shane Lowry and Tommy Fleetwood battled it out for the Claret Jug.

“The last two holes were among the best things that have ever happened to me,” said Phillip. “It was awesome. Walking down the 18th, I’ve never experienced anything like that. The songs, the atmosphere, the hair stood up on my arms big time and there’s no words that can describe it.”

BIGGA Chief Executive Officer Jim Croxton said: “The Open is, in my view, the finest tournament in the sport with the beautiful links courses that host the event being critical to that. Royal St George’s is a special venue and I’m thrilled that once again members of BIGGA have the chance to play a small part in presenting it for the world’s best players.

“Following two very difficult years in terms of weather, I know that Course Manager Paul Larsen and his team have put in an extraordinary amount of work to ensure the links will be in prime condition.

“I’m extremely proud that once again The R&A has called upon BIGGA’s professional members to assist with the maintenance of the course throughout the championship. The Open is a long week but everyone at BIGGA is looking forward to giving our all and ensuring the 149th Open is Royal St George’s best one yet.”

The BIGGA Volunteer Open Support Team will be provided with accommodation, food, refreshments and uniform for the event. Members of the support team may also be called upon at short notice to assist Course Manager Paul Larsen and his team with early morning preparation work and divoting duties. With early tee times and golf played until nightfall, the week is intense and physically-demanding.

The 149th Open takes place from 16 to 19 July 2020. Thank you to everyone who applied to be part of this year’s team.

Here are the BIGGA members who will be assisting the home greenkeepers for the duration of the event:

Robert Acheson, Thornock Park GC; David Ball, Thetford GC; James Bonfield, The Hertfordshire G&CC; Tom Bromfield, Trentham GC; Andrew Brown, Boundary Lakes; Mark Cleverley, Hollywood GC; Jason Connoughton, Yeovil GC; Daryn Curtis, Royal Mid-Surrey GC; James Dawson, Oulton Hall GC; Julian Drake, Neath GC; Nicholas Edwards, The Wisley; Michael Elderfield, Sandy Lodge GC; Edoardo Fauro, Walton Heath; Ryan Fiander, Lees Hall GC; Stuart Fry, Old Thorns GC; Craig Gibson, Essendon CC; Jorge Grandio, Royal Wimbledon GC; James Hampson, Llanymynech GC; Craig Hempseed, Mortonhall GC; Kevin Hensman, Rowlands Castle GC; Alastair Hollingsbee, Etchinghill GC; James Hook, Woodspring G&CC; Dale Housden, Drayton Park GC; Adam King, Radley GC; Antony Kirwan, Romford GC; Matthew Kitson, Royal Mid-Surrey GC; John Le Cappelain, Royal Jersey GC; Chris Low, Olton GC; Matthew Mackenzie, Ellesborough GC; Steven Mapes, Coventry GC; Michael Mead, Littlehampton GC; Peter Meek, The Wisley; William Merritt, Beacon Park GC; Ashley Millar, Churston GC; Harry Misselbrook, Harewood Downs GC; Ryan Neale, Blackwell GC; Joshua Raper, Golf Club Hosel E.V.; Laura Sayer-Hall, Ardfin GC; Tom Silcock, Macclesfield GC; Will Simmonds, The Richmond GC; Niels Sorensen, Randers Golf Klub; David Stewart, Walmley GC; Nick Street, Crews Hill GC; Ollie Tanton, Royal North Devon GC; Amy Thomas, Barton-on-Sea GC; Scott Thomson, Wetherby GC; Gary Tonge, Tain GC; Jeremy Ward, Rotherham GC.

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