Who are the 10 great greenkeepers backing the biggest championships in 2025?


By: May 5, 2025

The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and The R&A have identified 10 promising and dedicated greenkeepers to assist in the upkeep and success of tournaments at five of this year’s most significant championships.

The 152nd Open - Day Four greenkeepers

Ten dedicated BIGGA members will join the home greenkeeping teams to play a vital role in this summer’s prestigious R&A championships, including The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush and the AIG Women’s Open at Royal Porthcawl.

This is a unique opportunity for greenkeepers to gain invaluable experience in elite championship preparation by collaborating with the home and R&A’s Championship Agronomy teams.

The volunteers will be on site at:

  • The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush;
  • The Senior Open at Sunningdale;
  • The AIG Women’s Open at Royal Porthcawl;
  • The Amateur Championship at Royal St George’s and Royal Cinque Ports;
  • The Women’s Amateur Championship at Nairn.
The 152nd Open - Day 4 greenkeepers

Each member will be able to participate in one of the championships, where they will gain hands-on experience alongside the home greenkeeping team.

In addition, the entire group will gather at Royal Birkdale in April for an enriching educational session.

They will also receive an invitation to attend The Open at Royal Portrush, which will allow them to deepen their understanding of course preparation and the staging of a major championship.

The R&A Championship Agronomy Programme is an invaluable addition for BIGGA members.

It complements the existing range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the skills and competencies of greenkeeping professionals.

The 10 lucky greenkeepers

The successful BIGGA members selected for 2025 are:

  • Ethan Walker, Enville Golf Club
  • Steven Connolly, Ansty Golf Centre
  • Duncan Sieling, The Richmond Golf Club
  • Kyle Gauld, Whitecraigs Golf Club
  • Geoffrey Seath, Broadstone Golf Club
  • Christopher Szoradi, The Manchester Golf Club
  • Adam Matthews, Minchinhampton Golf Club
  • Jack Hall, Kilworth Springs Golf Club
  • Dean Baily, Heswall Golf Club
  • Bradley Taylor, Beau Desert Golf Club