Chipping Sodbury head greenkeeper to lead BIGGA

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The head greenkeeper at Chipping Sodbury Golf Club in Gloucestershire has been appointed vice president of greenkeeping association BIGGA.

John Keenaghan will become president of the association in January 2024, succeeding Shirley Golf Club’s course manager Andy Smith.

John began his career at Filton Golf Club in Bristol and has worked at various venues in the area, including The Kendleshire, The Players and The Manor House. In 2002 he joined Chipping Sodbury, becoming head greenkeeper in 2006.

Throughout his career, John has volunteered at various events including as part of The Open Volunteer Support Team.

As vice president and president, John will act as an ambassador for the association and will also be part of the board of management and utilise his experience to guide the board in its decision making.

John will continue in his role at Chipping Sodbury throughout his terms as vice president and president, representing the club on an international scale.

John said: “I’m absolutely delighted and honoured – I just hope I do a good job. I have been fortunate to have met so many quality greenkeepers in my career, which has spanned over 30 years, and it will be a privilege to serve them in my role as vice president and then president of BIGGA.

“I just hope that if there’s one thing I can do in my role as president, it will be to instill some of my passion for greenkeeping into those young people who are just starting out.”

BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton said: “In his 30 years within greenkeeping, John has shown an unwavering commitment to supporting the activities of BIGGA and his fellow members and so I’m delighted that he has accepted the invitation to be vice president of the association, becoming president in January 2024.

“John’s enthusiasm for greenkeeping is infectious and I’m looking forward to working alongside him as the association enters a particularly busy period and seeks to provide a clear vision that helps our members overcome the challenges they face, such as the recruitment and retention of quality staff.”