Monty backs new Scottish PGA Academy venue

Europe’s Ryder Cup captain welcomes Gleneagles move

Colin Montgomerie has welcomed the decision to make Gleneagles the home of the PGA National Academy for Scotland with open arms – branding it an ‘inspirational backdrop’ for aspiring professionals.

The European Ryder Cup captain is thrilled that the decision has been made in the run up to the Ryder Cup being staged at the Gleneagles resort in 2014, and believes it is the next step to creating a lasting legacy from the prestigious event.

“Golf in Scotland will get a huge boost when the Ryder Cup is contested on Gleneagles’ PGA Centenary course in four years time,” said the Scot.

“The PGA National Academy at Gleneagles should provide a very inspiring backdrop for the next generation of golfers and coaches who will be training there.

“It is one of the many grass roots initiatives being put in place to ensure we grow the game in Scotland and capitalize on the benefits of hosting the Ryder Cup.”

Gleneagles, which has three championship courses, already enjoys an enviable reputation as the venue for the Johnnie Walker Championship since 1999 and having agreed to stage and support the Scottish PGA Championship for the foreseeable future.

The resort is also a long-term PGA partner and the association’s chief executive Sandy Jones is proud of the relationship they have formed over the years.

“We’ve enjoyed a fruitful relationship with Gleneagles for many years and our Scottish regional office has been based there since 2002,” said Jones. “We’re delighted with the latest development as we see it as a natural progression of our partnership.”

Bryce Ritchie is the Editor of bunkered and, in addition to leading on content and strategy, oversees all aspects of the brand. The first full-time journalist employed by bunkered, he joined the company in 2001 and has been editor since 2009. A member of Balfron Golfing Society, he currently plays off nine and once got a lesson from Justin Thomas’ dad.

Editor of bunkered