Your chance to join a championship greenkeeping team

BIGGA members once again have the opportunity to become part of the greenkeeping team at some of golf’s biggest events through The R&A Championship Agronomy Programme.

Returning for a third year in 2027, the initiative gives successful applicants the chance to volunteer at an allocated championship venue, working alongside the host greenkeeping team during the build-up to and delivery of the event. Applications are open throughout September. The experience offers an insight into the planning, precision and teamwork required to produce championship-standard playing surfaces, while allowing volunteers to experience a different operation, learn from new colleagues and build lasting professional connections.

The 2026 cohort supported championships across Great Britain and Ireland, including The Open at Royal Birkdale and the AIG Women’s Open at Royal Lytham and St Annes.

Lee Park’s Harry Glover joined the Royal Liverpool team for The Amateur Championship in June.

“The whole experience from start to finish has been amazing,” he said. “I’ve met a new group of people who I’ve been able to learn from, share stories with and have a great laugh with. Working at Hoylake was incredible. I became part of their team for the week and was paired with Master Greenkeeper Brent Downs, who was happy to share his experience with me and the others in the cohort. It’s given me new friends, great memories and huge motivation to push on further in my career. You should apply because it’s such a good opportunity, and one I never thought I’d be selected for.”

Kate Stillwell travelled from Iceland to volunteer at Royal Lytham and St Annes for the AIG Women’s Open.

“Working at the Women’s Open made me incredibly proud to be part of an industry that has programmes like this,” said Kate. “You are integrated into a team of skilled professionals and given access to data and equipment that allow top championship venues to focus on minute details and raise the standards of the playing surfaces they present each day. I’ve met people who I will stay in touch with for life and continue to trade ideas and experiences with. I would ask anyone: what is your reason not to apply?”

Paul Fowkes, course manager at Kilworth Springs, was chosen to join the team at Lahinch for the Walker Cup.

“Being selected has been one of the highlights of my career,” he said. “Meeting the cohort and building new friendships has been just as valuable as the technical knowledge we’ve gained. My advice is simple: do it. It’s a unique opportunity to learn from some of the very best in the industry.”