Greenkeeping duo recognised in national awards

YORK — Greenkeeping students from Oaklands College have joined the best of their industry this week in celebrating nominations in the Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards.

27 year-old Levi Pethick (pictured far right) and 33 year old Graham Hastie, both studying an Advanced Apprenticeship in Greenkeeping formed two of the final six students up for the 29th TORO Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award, hosted in York at the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association HQ at Aldwark Manor.

The highly coveted awards invites student greenkeepers from all over the UK to test their knowledge not only in greenkeeping but in the wider skills and personal development required to kick start their career.

Levi, from Portsmouth in Hampshire was awarded a runner’s up place in the competition and Graham from Fareham achieved finalist level. The duo are both completing their apprenticeship at Southampton’s Stoneham Golf Club, a club that has previously hosted prestigious golfing events such as the British Masters.

As runner up in the competition, Levi will receive a trip to ‘Continue to Learn’ at the upcoming BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition (BTME) including four days of education, five nights’ hotel accommodation, travel and £125 expenses, plus a Toro Training voucher.

Following his award, Levi said: “It’s been a great experience. As young greenkeepers, going forward it will definitely help our careers. It’s a great bit of exposure for the club and also  gives you a good idea as to where you are in your career.

“The enthusiasm, keenness and the passion from all the judges has been just incredible.
“I’m not really one to show off, but this has been a great achievement for me.”

Head of Land Based Work Based Learning Andy Wright said: “To have Oaklands students as two of out six of the awards finalists is an incredible achievement. These awards really celebrate our finest up and coming talent. To be able to add this additional recognition to their existing experience will really give them the edge when moving into full time employment.”