Dear Industry Colleague,

The US PGA Championship, which was held recently at Aronimink in Pennsylvania, was won by Aaron Rai, who grew up in Wolverhampton and cut his golfing teeth at the marvellous 3 Hammers Golf complex close by. Much has been written about the heartwarming story of this thoroughly decent golf professional, who goes about his business in an understated, professional and friendly manner, yet achieves magnificent results through hard work, dedication and talent. The last 10 holes that he played in 6 under par could have been even better, but he flushed every shot and played sublimely whilst under the most intense pressure. He may not be the longest driver on the tour – in fact he’s one of the shorter hitters – but his golfing nous and precise iron play earned him the biggest win of his career to date.

Rai doesn’t even have a manager and still wears the two all-weather gloves given to him early in his career by a Bob Cheetham, a local businessman and Huxley Golf installer. What a refreshing change to see one so humble and happy triumph against the brasher and flashier champions that we are used to today. Our congratulations to all and especially to 3 Hammers Golf complex and its former owner Ian Bonser who created an opportunity for a young man to start playing and learn superb golf in an informal setting. This is precisely why golf centres are so important to the development of the sport as a whole.

On a very sad note, our great friend, Robert Dickman recently passed away. Robert was a golf professional, golf businessman and the former owner of Cuckfield Golf Centre. He had been plagued with dreadful health issues throughout his life but cheerfully overcame most of them to lead a full and wonderful life. He was a great friend and a great man. We will miss him dearly.

Best wishes,

Colin Jenkins
(07768) 887033