BIGGA mourns the death of Ian Kinley - the gentle giant

The news of Ian Kinley's sudden passing came as a profound shock to BIGGA and many across the industry and beyond. 

The Royal Porthcawl course manager was a hugely respected and much-loved figure within the profession, and his death has prompted tributes from across the game of golf. 

Ian was a proud BIGGA member whose career spanned nearly three decades, defined by a deep passion for links golf, a commitment to thoughtful, sustainable course management and an unwavering generosity towards others.  

He led the team that proudly hosted the AIG Women's Open in 2025, an achievement that showcased both the course and the greenkeeping profession at the very highest level. 

 

Only days before his passing, Ian was at BTME 2026 in Harrogate, where he appeared as a panellist at The R&A Breakfast session. Drawing on his experience of preparing playing surfaces for a major championship, he spoke with characteristic insight and humility, leaving a lasting impression on those in attendance.  

It was a fitting reflection of a man who was always willing to share knowledge and experience for the benefit of others. 

Ian's greenkeeping journey began at St Andrews Links, where he worked on the Old Course during the formative years of his career. He later held roles at Lahinch in the west of Ireland and took on his first course manager position at The Glen in North Berwick, experiences that helped shape both his professional philosophy and his enduring love of links golf. He eventually settled at Royal Porthcawl, joining as course manager in 2009 and going on to make his most significant and lasting impact. 

His approach to course management was rooted in simplicity, respect for the natural environment and a deep understanding of links golf. Biodiversity and the protection of native flora and fauna were central to his thinking, as was the importance of allowing the land to express itself naturally.  

Ian was also a founding member of the Links Club in the UK, contributing to collaboration and shared learning among those entrusted with managing the country's finest links courses. 

Close friend and industry colleague Adrian Mortram reflected on Ian's standing within the profession, describing him as someone who quietly became a leader without ever seeking recognition.  

"Whilst he would never like to accept it, he was a figurehead within links golf, a patriarch, someone to look up to and how richly that was deserved," Adrian said. "His commanding stature was a recognisable feature for many, a true giant of our profession." 

Adrian also spoke of the way Ian's personal values were mirrored in his work at Royal Porthcawl.  

"Links golf was his passion and wow he certainly excelled at that," he said. "The caring nature which was within him as a person was also bestowed upon the management of the links of Royal Porthcawl. The rich diversity of flora and fauna were important to him as was each blade of grass. 'Keep it simple', he would tell me." 

Away from the golf course, Ian was known for his warmth, honesty and loyalty. He was an unassuming presence, approachable to all, and a generous host whose hospitality was legendary among those who visited Royal Porthcawl. A proud Cumbrian, he also enjoyed lively conversations about rugby, always delivered with good humour and perspective. 

Ian is survived by his wife Jo, his daughters Laura and Chloe-Nicole, and his son Cameron. BIGGA extends its deepest sympathies to Ian's family, friends and colleagues at Royal Porthcawl at this incredibly difficult time. 

He will of course be remembered for his professional achievements, and also for the kindness, integrity and passion he brought to everything he did. Ian leaves behind a legacy that will be felt for many years within greenkeeping and across the wider game of golf.