The R&A has appointed Dr Andy Owen as research manager in its Sustainable Golf team, strengthening its research and innovation work to support the long-term sustainability and resilience of golf courses around the world.

Owen brings extensive experience in turfgrass research, education and the global sports turf industry. He spent 12 years as international technical manager at ICL, and has previously worked at STRI, Myerscough College and Bangor University.

In his new role he will help shape and manage The R&A’s global sustainable golf research strategy, identifying and overseeing research into the key challenges that could affect the long-term sustainability of golf courses. The appointment will help The R&A build a deeper evidence base around the future needs of golf course management, as the industry responds to environmental, resource and agronomic challenges.

A major focus will be turning research into practical information and guidance, so that golf courses can apply the latest evidence and make better, more sustainable long-term management decisions. The golf industry can therefore expect more in-depth research and insight from The R&A, with a strong emphasis on findings that are relevant to those managing courses.

Owen will lead the continued development of Golf Course 2030 (GC2030) and support The R&A’s involvement in the International Turfgrass Research Initiative (ITRI). He will work with the wider Sustainable Golf team, including Dr Brett Morris, to strengthen the research, evidence and practical guidance available to the industry.