Gleneagles receives PGA boost

HOT on the heels of taking the wraps of final changes to the Centenary Course, Gleneagles has received a further boost in the countdown to the 2014 Ryder Cup after agreeing a ten-year extension of its relationship with the PGA.

It means the host course in two years’ time will continue to carry the PGA brand, as will the National Golf Academy at the Perthshire resort as well as the National Golf Academy Course. In addition, the Scottish office of the PGA will continue to be be based at Gleneagles, having moved there from Glenbervie 11 years ago.

“It’s an exciting time for everyone at Gleneagles as we count down to the 2014 Ryder Cup,” said the resort’s general manager, Bernard Murphy. “Now, more than ever, it’s important for us to strengthen relationships with industry bodies.

“We’re proud to be home to Scotland’s only PGA Academy and to be recognised as one of the pre-eminent facilities in the country for golf coaching and education.

“The timing is significant as it coincides with the re-opening of the PGA Centenary Course after seven months’ of extensive remodelling.

“This, along with an ongoing programme of investment in our facilities will ensure our guests enjoy an unparalleled golfing experience for many years to come.”

Sandy Jones, the PGA’s chief executive, is delighted The Belfry-based organisation has secured the contract extension at a venue that is close to his heart.

“The PGA brand is one of the most respected and recognised in golf and to be associated with a world-class facility like Gleneagles reaffirms that standing.

“The PGA has been fortunate to enjoy a long and successful relationship with Gleneagles stretching back many years and we look forward to working with Bernard Murphy and his team and seeing the PGA-branded course, academy and academy course being synonymous with the excellence that Gleneagles is renowned for.”

The Monarch’s Course was renamed the PGA Centenary Course in 2001 to celebrate the PGA’s centenary year, while the Gleneagles golf academy became the first in Scotland to bear the PGA brand in 2010.