Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards 2024
As the sun set on the 35th Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards at Oulton Hall in Leeds, the judges were more confident that ever that the future of the greenkeeping industry was in extremely safe hands going forward. The technical knowledge and passion for the profession on display from all the finalists assured them of that. In what was a closely run competition we’re delighted to introduce the winners and runners up of the 2024 awards!
The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award was presented to Jack Vowell, Deputy Head Greenkeeper at Farrington Park (left). Runner-up was Jack Wellings, Senior Greenkeeper at the JCB Golf and Country Club.
The five main finalists were very impressive and they have done themselves and their clubs proud. They show that the industry is in extremely safe hands going forward. It was a closely run competition and everyone acquitted themselves well. Jack, however, showed a balance of professionalism and technical knowledge, which he knew how to deliver.
It was such a strong field that when the runner-up’s name was read out I thought, ‘I’ve got no chance, he’s fantastic compared to me’ and so I was in complete shock when my name was announced as the winner. I just couldn’t believe it was me!
The Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award was presented to Daniel Parker, Apprentice Greenkeeper at Knighton Heath (left). Runner-up was Alex Fox, Apprentice Greenkeeper at Woodhall Spa.
The young finalists shone on the course walk, demonstrating a fantastic level of knowledge with enthusiasm and confidence. All the awards judges felt proud, pleased and privileged to be able to see the calibre of the next generation of greenkeeping in front of us. Daniel is destined for a long career in the industry and is a worthy winner of the Young award.
So many emotions were going around my head, I couldn’t believe it, but it’s brilliant. I phoned my dad as soon as I found out and he was with some family at home and they were all celebrating with me. I then spoke to my course manager and he and the rest of the team were completely thrilled. This award is as much for them as it is for me because we’re all part of a team.
The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards will return in 2025. More information including how to nominate a student greenkeeper and the extraordinary prizes on offer is available on the BIGGA website and the Reesink Turfcare website Students Awards | Reesink Turfcare.
