Camberley date for golf-mad dad
25/05/2015
Golf has become a real family affair for the Barretts since Joe and his son Conor swapped their football boots for a seven iron eight years ago.
The sport has become something that the family of four can experience together, even if their daughter – yet to fully get the golfing bug – is more interested in driving the buggy.
Yet at the age of 58 Barrett, who took to the sport upon his son’s suggestion, is ready to take his golf up to the next level.
He will play in Europe’s largest pro-am, the Lombard Trophy, alongside his Hindhead PGA Professional Ian Benson.
Barrett claimed entry through his club qualifier, and will travel with his pro to Camberley Heath for the regional final on May 27.
And should they win that event their year will culminate in the championship final over the PGA Centenary Course at Gleneagles on September 2-3.
The tournament, which carries a total prize fund of £80,000, will see more than 700 pairings play 16 regional venues for the chance to compete over last year’s Ryder Cup course.
Son Conor, who was a qualified football referee before switching sports, will watch from afar as he is currently away studying economics at Kent University.
Barrett said: “I was an FA youth coach but when Conor decided it was time for a change and suggested golf I was eager to give it a go.
“I didn’t play at all before I was 50 but now I love it. I literally go out and play golf as much as I can.
“My wife Kay is really into it too and while my daughter hasn’t quite got to grips with it yet, she still loves to come along and insists on driving the buggy.”
Barrett, a marketing manager who plays off a handicap of 15, admitted he is feeling good about his golf in the run up to the event.
“I’m playing well and I had my handicap cut recently, so hopefully that bodes well for the event.
“I’m playing consistently too and that is always important!
“I’d not played in many club events like that before so I was really pleased to come through and make it to the regional final.”
