BBC newsreader to headline PGA graduation

BBC newsreader, Celebrity Mastermind champion and self-confessed golf nut Naga Munchetty is the guest of honour at this year’s PGA Graduation ceremony at the University of Birmingham.

The 38-year BBC Breakfast and BBC World News presenter will recognise the achievements of the newest crop of aspiring PGA Professionals.

Munchetty, who chose the Ryder Cup as her specialist subject on Mastermind, will join the family and friends of the graduates at the university’s Great Hall on Friday April 19 for the annual celebration, which encompasses the PGA Titleist Assistant of the Year, the Ladies European Tour sponsored Female Assistant of the Year and the leading winners from both year one and two of the PGA’s three-year foundation degree.

The event, a tribute to achievers from the PGA National Training Academy, also recognises an array of awards including Advanced Diploma, Director of Golf and ones from leading golf technology company GASP.

Munchetty, who only took up the game five years ago but has since had the opportunity to play golf with Ian Poulter and multiple major winner Gary Player, is relishing the chance to encourage the next generation of PGA Professionals.

“All of them are inspirational having worked incredibly hard to get where they are in their careers already,” she said.

“I wish I had known about the opportunities that golf offers because I would have loved to have been a professional.

“This is a really exciting time for all of them and I am looking forward to meeting the winners and congratulating all of the graduates on their success.”