Scottish Golf Round Up
Martin Dempster, Golf Correspondent, presents the latest updates from grassroots Scottish golf.
James Erskine Receives Lifetime Achievement Award
James Erskine, head professional at Dumfries and County Golf Club, was honored with the Sir Henry Cotton Lifetime Achievement Award this year. The Golf Foundation awards this prestigious prize for outstanding service to junior golf. Erskine received the trophy from Golf Foundation president Nick Dougherty.
Under Erskine’s leadership, Dumfries and County Golf Club has grown to more than 120 junior members. Last year, the club opened a new state-of-the-art practice facility and short course.
“I grew up in a sparse area with poor facilities and little coaching,” Erskine stated. “I made it my mission to change that. Over the last 20 years, I’ve delivered coaching at 23 of 24 local clubs, and seeing kids now play the game – that’s the greatest reward.”
His dedication has contributed to the development of national champions and over 20 PGA professionals. Yet, his focus remains on growing the game at the grassroots level.
“It’s not about the tour players,” he added. “It’s about giving kids the gift of golf and helping them belong to clubs. If we don’t grow the game, we don’t have golf’s future.”
Fife Players Dominate Scottish Golf Titles
Players from Fife secured three of the four main titles in this year’s Scottish Golf Order of Merit season-long competitions. Andrew Davidson from Crail won the men’s title, while St Andrews’ Finlay Galloway and Carly McDonald claimed the boys’ and girls’ crowns, respectively.
Author’s summary: James Erskine’s commitment to junior golf has transformed Dumfries and County Golf Club, while Fife players excelled in Scotland’s top golf competitions this season.