HAPPY DAYS

Just when I thought things couldn’t get any better, they just did. Heard one of my old doubles partner was back home, sent him a message, and he joined Dawn and I for 18 holes today. Fantastic to catch up after so long. 

Michael Brodie was Strathmore Juniors first plus handicapper, won the P&K gents stroke play Championship when still a Junior and went to America to play in the Nick Faldo series final after winning a qualifier at Panmure, when he eagled the last hole. 

I remember spending a lot of time with Michael on the course and one night having a conversation about the sports he was playing. He was being recognised at County level in Cricket, was a talented footballer and had real potential at golf. I advised him that three sports was too much and that he should concentrate on one , play one for fun and give up the other one. His dad approached me a couple of days later and informed me of his decision, which I was dreading, but I was delighted when he told me that he was dropping the other two to concentrate on golf. 

He had so many successes at club and county level, both in junior and gents level. He earned himself a scholarship to America and was there for 4 years. On his return  he took a job caddying at Kingsbarns and in 2019 was given the opportunity to go to New Zealand to work for the same owners. Due to Covid restrictions he found himself on the other side of the world and it’s been the best thing that could have happened in his career. After a total lockdown for 6 weeks the country internally were back to normal. He had a great job, fantastic lifestyle and opportunities. 

Today I am delighted to confirm Strathmore Juniors will have their 6th professional when he joins the PGA on a 3 year course in January. After seeing his play today I believe that the progress he has made gives him another opportunity to take his golf to another level. 

When I became involved in junior golf all I wanted was youngsters to play more and have fun. 14 years later, having assisted so many, I am so grateful that these kids still appreciate that help. 

2024 will see us having professionals in Scotland, England, Australia, Cambodia and New Zealand. 

Below are a couple of pictures one from today and one from a few years ago. Does anyone recognise the left hander standing next to Michael when they played in a Junior Ryder Cup event at Gleneagles ? 

Who knows what the next few years will bring but I am excited to see where it takes us.