Dutch delight at PGA achievement

A Dutch PGA Professional has hailed The PGA’s foundation degree after revealing the part it has played in securing him a top job at one of the Netherlands’ best courses.

Hiddo Uhlenbeck (above left) landed the role as head professional at Kennemer Golf Club at the start of the year – just months after finishing second in the Titleist PGA Assistant of the Year awards.

Kennemer GC is rated in the top 100 golf courses in the world and this autumn will play host to the best players in Europe as it stages the KLM Open.

Uhlenbeck, who spent a decade playing on various tours including the PGA Europro Tour, returned to England to be recognised for his achievement at the PGA Annual Graduation ceremony, held at the University of Birmingham today (Wednesday April 15).

He received a cheque for £2,500 from Titleist brand director Matt Johnson and guest of honour, Ryder Cup director Richard Hills. The Assistant of the Year title was won by five-time Curtis Cup player Julie Otto.

Uhlenbeck, who was previously at Golf & Business Club de Scherpenhbergh, said: “I was quite surprised when I finished second, I just did everything the best I could. I am very happy and proud of the result.

“It definitely helped me in securing the role of head professional at Kennemer, especially in terms of preparing for the role and the whole process of securing the post.

“I didn’t apply for the post but was asked to consider it and what I learned on the PGA foundation degree certainly helped with the whole process.

“I turned professional in 2002 and played on tours across Europe and then wanted to study and the PGA foundation degree is recognised as the best in the world and that’s why I took it.”

Uhlenbeck is still getting to grips with his new role at Kennemer, but is looking forward to playing host to Europe’s elite.

“It will be a great week for the club,” he said. “My role will be organising coaching clinics with the Dutch pros. I’m still working everything out but it’s a great place to be.”

Find out more about a career in golf as a PGA Professional here.