Keir is top PGA rookie

A former leading Scottish amateur has successfully made the transition to being a PGA professional after landing the Rookie of the Year honour.

Gullane-based Keir McNicoll was recognised for his achievements at the annual PGA Graduation ceremony at the University of Birmingham.

Although unable to attend, his efforts secured him a £1,000 cheque and the Major John Bywater trophy.

The 29-year-old, who also was recognised by PGA Official Supplier GASP Systems for coming top in the first year coaching exams, was joined in the top three by runner-up John Powell (Hampton Court Palace) and Harriett Key (Moor Park), who finished third.

McNicoll’s success crowned a big year for Gullane who were also celebrating the achievements of Emma Fairnie and Jordan Ramanauskas, who finished second and 12th in the Titleist PGA Assistant of the Year awards respectively.

The Scot said: “It’s a great honour. I try to be the best in everything I do and put everything I can into doing well, like I did at high school and then university, and the PGA course is no exception.

“I don’t necessarily think I’m cleverer than anyone I just work very hard and get the most out of it, however, combining work, study, practice and playing is tough.

“Gullane is a great place to work as the place is always busy and you never know what you’re going to end up doing.

“There is so much to do and working with Jordan and Emma, who are slightly younger than me but a couple years ahead in terms of the degree, means we do learn a lot from each other and help each other out.

“As for the degree course, I didn’t think I would learn as much as I have. I knew I’d learn something but having played at a high level as an amateur, played on the tours and also been to university, I’m surprised at the amount I have learned.

“I wish what I have learned I knew before I turned pro as it would have been very useful.”

Following his initial success, McNicoll is refusing to get carried away as he looks to establish himself down his new career path.

“Given my past experiences I don’t look too far into the future,” he said. “I had a lot of hopes and dreams, and still have, but now I set smaller goals. To get through each year on the course is my aim at the minute and I’m not looking beyond that.

“I love playing and that’s still my main desire. I practice as much as I can and once my second year exams are out of the way, then all my time off will be dedicated to practicing or playing. I just love playing in tournaments.

“I’ve found since joining the PGA degree my game has improved which is good. I’ve been working with Sandy Smith, who’s a PGA tutor and Fellow PGA Professional, and that’s really helped.”

Training and education remains an integral part of the PGA with the foundation degree, while the PGA also runs an honours degree in association with the University of Birmingham.

Once qualified, PGA members also undergo a process of continual professional development to keep them up to speed with all the latest developments in the sport.

Sandy Jones, chief executive of the PGA, said: “PGA graduation day is certainly one of the highlights of our golfing calendar. I congratulate each and every one of our new graduates and those who have been successful on the degree programme in year one and two.”

Matthew Johnson, Titleist brand director, said: “PGA professionals play a key role in the development and growth of the game across all levels, and we are delighted to support the next generation of qualified professionals and to wish them well with their future careers.”