8.00am 30th August 2024 – Practice and Teaching Range – This story was updated on Thursday, August 29, 2024
PGA of Scotland professional Declan Gray is starting a new chapter in his career after accepting a new teaching role in Dubai.
After six years at The Blairgowrie Golf Club, where he was a long-time member, the 23-year-old former Perth Grammar School student has completed a professional teaching role at The Montgomerie Club, designed by the European Tour legend and former Ryder Cup captain. Colin Montgomery.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Blairgowrie and working with the team here,” said Gray, who graduated with a golf degree from the University of the Highlands and Islands based in Dornoch. “But I think it’s time to move on and this is a good opportunity to gain experience working abroad.
“My degree, and the reputation of the UHI course and being in the Royal Dornoch department really helps in other countries. I will participate as a teaching professional at the Montgomery Club’s Academy, as part of a six-man team under head pro David Laing, from Edinburgh.”
Gray revealed he sought advice from his Perth-born predecessor in Blairgowrie, Sam McLaren, who is now director of golf at Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club in the UAE, and former general manager Steven Morgan, who spent time in the Middle East at the start of his season. work.
“I started by emailing golf managers and pros to let them know that I would be interested in any roles that would be played in the fall,” Gray explained. “I was in Dubai on holiday earlier this summer and I got in touch with a few people, including Sam.
“Teaching golf is something I love and for the past four years I have been coaching juniors and helping ladies to get into the game of golf. It’s great to see the junior section at Blairgowrie, in particular, flourishing. We have almost 100 members now, which is great for the club to move forward.
“In Dubai, I will work with golfers of all levels, from all over the world. Sometimes the translator will have to overcome the language barrier. As you’d expect, the facilities are excellent, including a Trackman studio, an excellent short game facility and a nine-hole practice course. And after the summer we’ve had here in Scotland, it should be a bit warmer in Dubai!”
Stuart Wilson, managing secretary at The Blairgowrie Golf Club, said: “Declan has been a great asset to the team here, working with principal Neil Cameon and assistant Graeme Leggat. It has been a pleasure to be able to support Declan in his academic and professional development. We thank him for his dedication to Blairgowrie Golf Club and wish him well in his exciting new venture in Dubai.”
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