PGA backs kids golf event

May 25 2011 by Our Correspondent, Birkenhead News

A NEW starter course in the Wirral aimed at encouraging a new generation of golfers is set to swing into action with a little help from the PGA.

The PGA, the world’s oldest professional golfers association, has supplied PGA Collection irons and putters for use by primary school children at New Brighton’s six hole par three course which is the latest initiative supported by the Wirral Golf Development Group.

PGA captain Eddie Bullock attended the official launch of Club T.G (Tri-Golf) on the King’s Parade promenade which will be open to 108 primary schools in the borough and is aimed at acting as a feeder club for nearby municipal courses.

“It’s wonderful to see the school children have this opportunity and congratulations to John Heggarty and the Wirral steering group for getting the PGA involved and I hope it gets more support,” said Bullock.

Youngsters from nearby New Brighton Primary School were special guests for the launch and it’s hoped the facility will be first step to lifelong involvement in the sport with taster sessions and beginner lessons.

The initiative is part of a legacy from Royal Liverpool’s staging of the Open Championship in 2014 and also owes much to the memory of late PGA professional Chris Gill who teamed up with the golf development group during the last Open at Hoylake in 2006.

Neil Price, a PGA qualified professional and Wirral’s golf development coach, will manage the project with backing from Royal Liverpool head professional John Heggarty and the Golf Foundation.

“The aim has been to develop golf as much as we can and with help from council funding we have created a six-hole course and little clubhouse for Neil and his local schools,” explained Heggarty.

“Children will be able to attend taster sessions, learn to play golf and most importantly have fun in a safe and secure environment.

“Half a mile up the road there is a much bigger par three course and also Warren Municipal Golf Course so there is the beginning of a structure that can now integrate kids from taster sessions right through to a full version of the game.”