This summer, among many other activities, children will also be able to experience first class golf. The Temenos Club course operated by the Troon Golf staff will be bringing, for the second year in a row, an extremely high quality golf camp for Anguillian children during the entire month of July. This year’s program will be directed by Bernie Morgan, assistant golf professional. He will be supported by an impressive staff at the Temenos Golf Club with Dana Schmid (Club Manager/Director of Golf), Hale Kelley (Head Golf Professional), and Josh Shepard (Associate Golf Professional). Moreover, there will be various volunteers from the Anguilla Golf Association (AGA) on hand to assist in the instruction of the junior golfers.

The staff of Troon Golf, was gracious enough to invite me to play a round of golf with Bernie Morgan. Bernie and I were also joined by two gentlemen named Chad Meldrum and Theron Loizos. Chad works for Viceroy and Theron is the head chef and owner of Picante Restaurant . I was certainly honoured to play with all three gentlemen as they were superb players. We began play at 7:30 a.m. and finished around 1:00 p.m. It was particularly hot that day and there was little wind. The lack of wind proved to be beneficial for all of us as our scores could have dropped dramatically as the wind can be a decisive factor when attempting any sport that requires precision and accuracy. Although my score at the end of the day was quite bad compared to the other guys, it was nevertheless a fantastic day. Theron came out on top shooting a 76, which is not only an even par, but the current course record. The course is without a doubt the most beautiful I have ever seen and it would be such an experience for any children keen on learning.

The golf classes are open to all children 8 years and older and will be held every Tuesday and Thursday during the month of July from 4:30-6:00pm. All nine sessions will cost USD $65, a small price to pay as a normal one hour private golf lesson can cost up to USD $100. This camp will be made possible once again from sponsors such as St. Regis Residences and Flag Luxury Properties. Luke Thomas, owner of Play-A-Round will also be opening his doors for the children to participate in a fun filled environment. All necessary equipment will be provided by the Temenos Golf Club although the children will be asked to wear proper shirts, shorts and tennis shoes and will be prohibited from wearing tank tops. It is also recommended that they bring a hat or a visor and drinking water. Nike Junior Golf Equipment, golf balls and prizes will be provided thanks to Flag Luxury Properties Anguilla and Temenos Golf Club. There is a limit of 30 students and the deadline for entry is June 25 so sign up quickly in order to ensure a spot in this exciting opportunity.

Last year’s program had a total of 16 children and it was a great success. The staff is hoping that the same children want to return as it is important to continue building skills over a period of time. Golf is a sport that requires a great deal of hand eye coordination, concentration, critical thinking skills, discipline, and patience. I had a chance to sit down and speak with Dana Schmid and she mentioned that the program will be very structured and run professionally. She highlighted that all of her staff is affiliated with the Professional Golfers Association of America (PGA). This is important because it ensures a level of accreditation and quality to the program, but more importantly, the PGA provides many resources for the teaching of youth. Children will be taught golf fundamentals, etiquette, putting, short game, and of course full swings from teeing off to hitting with wedges from fairways. Dana said, “interest has been very positive with the success of Tiger Woods. We want the juniors who played last year to return as well as introduce new students to the sport. It is important that children continue building their skills so that they can advance their play to the next level.”

Bernie Morgan, program director, also mentioned, “I am absolutely delighted that children and Anguillians are experiencing a new sport. This facility is keen to promote juniors. Golf is a great sport that teaches life skills and character and I am happy to be involved in the teaching process.”
If there any further inquiries about the program, people may call the Temenos Golf Club at 222-8200 or write an e-mail to info@temenosanguilla.com. As golf is widely considered a luxury sport, especially in the Caribbean, I laud the Temenos Golf Club for providing opportunities for Anguillian youth. I encourage all youth who may be interested in golf to sign up quickly and enjoy this wonderful program.

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