Stephen Gallacher opens state-of-the-art training centre

Tour legend Stephen Gallacher wants to inspire future generations of golfers after opening a state-of-the-art new facility.

The former Ryder Cup star cut the ribbon on the Stephen Gallacher Foundation Centre of Excellence at Kingsfield Golf Centre in Linlithgow on Thursday.

He was joined for the opening by fellow Scots pros Robert MacIntyre, Calum Hill, Connor Syme, Marc Warren, Grant Forrest, Louise Duncan and Richie Ramsay.

Gallacher revealed the centre has been in the works for a decade – and aims to inspire everyone, from those picking up a club for the first time to those attempting to make their way in the pro ranks.

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“We started just to get kids involved in golf,” Gallacher said.

“I know the importance of what you get taught at primary school – nearly all our parents played golf, but we’re trying to get to kids whose parents don’t play golf. The best way to do that is if you get to school level and they might pick it up.

“Having this facility makes it fun for them. They don’t know they’re learning, but they’re going back saying ‘I really enjoyed golf’ and wanting to take it to the next level. We can then say we’ve got events on. We’ve got everything.

“We can bring in the elite level, we can open it to beginners.”

The newly-opened centre, which features two simulator bays as well as Puttview technology, is one of only a handful of indoor centres in Scotland.

And after 26 years on tour, Gallacher wants to do his bit to widen the appeal of the game which has given him so much.

“Kingsfield is already a great place, with the nine holes and the outdoor bit. This indoor facility just adds to that,” he said.

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“When the weather’s bad we can use the whole place. It makes so much sense to build it.

“Kids are coming onto the tour and they are so much more ready to play at a high level, and that’s because they’ve got all the technology to help them.

“I’ve been lucky enough to have 26 years on tour. I think you’ve got to give back. If you don’t give back, it would be a waste of 26 years. I want to give people the chance to enjoy the sport as much as I have. It starts with enjoying it, and if you work hard enough and have the desire you can make it to the top.

“It’s about getting more people playing golf. At any level, you have got to give back. When you see a facility like this which I’m incredibly proud of, it’s all worth it.”