Carnoustie apprentice becomes qualified

By Alistair May 14, 2023 08:00

Carnoustie Golf Links’ first apprentice in recent years, Ross Crosbie, has become a fully qualified greenkeeper after a four-year apprenticeship. He has been offered a full-time, permanent position as a qualified greenkeeper at the Angus venue.

As a Carnoustie resident, Ross was part of the Carnoustie Craws junior programme, which provides free group coaching to over 350 young people in the community, from age five to 18.

Kevin Stott, links superintendent at Carnoustie Golf Links, said: “From the outset, Ross has truly integrated himself into the greenkeeping team as well as the wider organisation. Ross arrives at work every day with a great attitude to learn, an enthusiastic work ethic and is also keen to pass on his knowledge and support newer apprentices.

“Since beginning his apprenticeship, Ross has showcased a strong commitment and passion to becoming a greenkeeper, always working to the best of his ability. He consistently looks to improve upon his skills and does so with real enthusiasm and determination.

“Ross has supported the greenkeeping team by acting as a representative at careers days, showcasing the apprenticeship programme and now, on completion of his apprenticeship, Ross continues to showcase his great attitude to work, his passion for greenkeeping and fantastic attention to detail and we believe that he is a great ambassador for Carnoustie.”

The four-year apprenticeship works in conjunction with Elmwood College in Cupar and upon completion, the apprentice is awarded with a sports turf greenkeeping SVQ Level 2 award.

He said: “Ever since I was young, I’ve played golf at Carnoustie, and I know how highly regarded Carnoustie is in the industry, because golf has pretty much been my life. So, to be able to work on a championship golf course, my home course, to me, that’s the best thing about working at Carnoustie.”