St Andrews event spreads the good word of First Green

Visitors from Monifieth Golf Links, Montrose Golf Links and Scottish Golf were on site on a glorious day at The Home of Golf, with the famous venue hosting First Green for the second time.

Activities for the 28 pupils from Canongate Primary School included bunker raking and hole changing, while a chance to sit on some of the machinery proved popular, and the wildlife and habitat station afforded the children a chance to make their own bug habitat in a cup.

Paul Teviotdale, head greenkeeper at Montrose, was visiting with the club’s head professional and both were impressed by what they saw.

“All members of staff at St Andrews were very good with the kids, trying to answer all their questions, making the job seem very interesting and enjoyable and hopefully planting a seed for one or two of the kids about a possible career in golf either as a greenkeeper or a golfer,” he said.

“After speaking to our head professional about the day he is very keen to contact the local schools and see if they would be interested in possibly coming down to visit their local golf course and allowing the kids to have an education day with a difference away from the classroom and in the outdoors.”

Viki Hart, general manager at Monifieth, was already sold on the idea and seeing it first-hand was a memorable experience.

“The First Green concept as a whole is fantastic, and it’s something we’re genuinely excited to introduce at Monifieth Golf Links,” she said. “STEM learning plays a vital role in children’s education, but as we all know, every child learns differently.

“Offering them a range of hands-on experiences while showcasing the diverse components of golf can help spark curiosity in different ways. Hopefully, by being in and around the golf environment, some will develop a lasting interest and want to get more involved — which, in turn, will support the sustainability and future of the game.” GI