Honour for John"s dedication (From Barry And District News)

Honour for John"s dedication

THE Golf Foundation is a national organisation which exists to promote junior golf throughout the UK - and their Sir Henry Cotton Award is reserved for those who have "demonstrated meritorious service to junior golf for a sustained period".

The Foundation has recognised the unselfish and dedicated work carried out by John Collins over many years as Junior Leader in Brynhill Golf Club, and John was delighted to be presented with the Award by Sir Michael Bonallack of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews at a celebration dinner in the Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel in May.

Few, if any, of the members of his home Club are surprised at the recognition John has now received.

For many years, he put in countless hours organising "his" juniors and driving thousands of miles, providing lifts, and occasionally exercising a little firmness when required.

During his tenure as Junior Leader, Brynhill enjoyed many local and national successes.

Steve Dodd is now a very successful professional and winner of European Tour events in China and Ireland, and the most outstanding success story.

In 1989, while still an amateur, Stephen won the British Amateur Open, several Welsh titles and played in the Walker cup team that won in America for the first time in many years. Calvin O'Carroll won the British Boys Open at the age of 17.

Iestyn Taylor, who has won national titles and represented Wales and Great Britain and Ireland, described John Collins as a "father figure" in a recent television interview and Kyron O'Sullivan, who recently competed in the Dutch Open, was helped by John as a junior.

Brynhill continues to support and encourage juniors - any young persons interested in taking up the sport are advised to contact Duncan Prior, Club Professional, with a view to enrolling in his junior development programme.

In golf there really is a great deal to learn, not just technique, but also rules, etiquette, and much more. Ring Duncan on 01446 720277 extn 106.