The Bermuda Golf Association has announced a new junior golf programme in partnership with international golf educators, Operation 36.

The programme, beginning on Monday, is open to children between the ages of 7 to 16 with an interest in trying golf for the first time or developing their existing skills and will run once each school term.

The course, which typically costs $350 a term in the United States, is being offered at a subsidised rate of $250 with financial support also possible for those who need it.

Over the course of the five-week terms, around 60 students will be able to undertake six skills classes at Ocean View Golf Course and take part in four on-course competitions. Classes will take place on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings with the cohort divided into appropriate age groups. The course will be led by certified local coaches who have successfully completed the Level One Coaching Certification from the organisation.

The programme is a key milestone in the BGA’s national plan, which aims to grow the sport at grass roots level, with BGA president Craig Brown hopeful of a fruitful partnership.

“The BGA Committee has done extensive research to find an engaging modern delivery for the game of golf,” Brown said. “The Op 36 programme is one of the fastest growing junior golf programmes in the world and we felt it was a perfect match for Bermuda as we endeavour to remove barriers and improve access to the game.”

Ryan Dailey, cofounder and general manager of Op 36, is delighted to bringing the programme to Bermuda“The BGA first reached out to us in 2021 and we were blown away by the passion and excitement on the island to use golf as a vehicle to teach life skills and for providing a competitive pathway from schools, to the golf course, to elite player development,” Daily said.

“Our programme, Operation 36, is currently being used in 725 golf facilities in 15 countries to provide the gold standard to introduce and guide anyone in playing the game of golf. We could not be more excited to be coming back this fall to officially run a Level 1 Operation 36 Certified Training for the BPGA and BGA.

“Golf in Bermuda has a bright future with great opportunities for those growing up and living on the island.”

People looking to participate in the programme should reach out to the BGA at info@bermudagolf.org or juniors@bermudagolf.org