Fairnie eyes pastures new after PGA degree success

Scottish golf professional Emma Fairnie (above right) has played her part in history after finishing runner-up in the first all-female top three in the Titleist PGA Assistant of the Year awards.

The 26-year-old Gullane professional admitted she was ‘chuffed to bits’ at her success, as she was recognised for her achievements at the annual PGA Graduation ceremony at the University of Birmingham.

Fairnie received a cheque for £2,500 presented by Titleist brand director Matthew Johnson and congratulations from Beverly Lewis, the first female captain of the PGA, who was the guest of honour.

She was joined in the top three by Assistant of the Year Alex Mollin from Jersey and third placed Kelly Hanwell, who is based at Al Badia Golf Club in Dubai.

Their performances are outstanding as women account for just three per cent of the total PGA assistants studying the three-year PGA Foundation degree.

“I’m absolutely chuffed to bits as finishing second overall means a huge amount to me and to put that on my CV is an amazing achievement, especially having been able to pull myself up the rankings,” said Fairnie.

“Alex and I have been in contact throughout the course while Kelly and I are also good friends.

“Without doubt we all learned from each other as we bounced ideas around. When the results came out Alex sent me a message congratulating me.

“I think it’s great that there are three women in the top three for the first time. I think it shows the quality of the females in golf and it shows our ambitions to be successful. I hope we can be an inspiration too.

“We’re showing the young girls who are playing golf now that there is a career path for them and it can take them all over the world.”

Fairnie’s success has secured her a new role in New Zealand at the end of the summer and her academic achievements with the PGA have played a significant part in getting the role in Auckland.

She added: “New Zealand is a real big step. I have just dropped lucky that I’m going to the place where Lydia Ko’s former coach is based.

“It will be work with elite players and I’m really looking forward to it as it is a fantastic opportunity.

“I certainly think finishing runner up in on the PGA Foundation degree has played a part.

“The PGA training is the best in the world and sets the standards for everyone else. That alone is significant on the CV but to finish second is a huge bonus and a fantastic addition. I am extremely grateful to the PGA and the work the education department does for all of us.”