A Scottish Diary by Karan Bindra

A Scottish Diary by Karan Bindra - Ryder Cup 2014, Golf at St Andrews, Teaching and Learning the game

1965
1965
Ryder Cup Watch: Paul McGinley on working under pressure

Scotland 2014 by Karan Bindra

 

On receiving invites from the PGAs of Europe, Anitya and I were all set to make a trip to the PGAs of Europe Teaching & Coaching Conference and the Home of Golf, Scotland.

 

The conference, being organised in conjunction with Ryder Cup Europe, brought together many noted speakers from the world of golf, including Chuck Cook (coach to the late Payne Stewart, Tom Kite, Keegan Bradley, Jason Dufner) and Michael Hebron (PGA Master Professional and PGA of America Teacher of the Year 1991) amongst others. During The 2-day conference held at the Stirling University, speakers presented on various topics focussing on giving us teachers, ways to improve and become better instructors. It was interesting to note on how the mind in golf has overtaken discussions over golf swing technique, and how researchers are giving insights on how to prepare a player better. It has been interesting to understand the change in philosophy to ‘How People Learn’ rather than ‘How to Teach’. Attending conferences such as this is truly enriching, and listening to professionals involved with various aspects of golf very informative.

 

On being awarded the Ryder Cup 2014 some ten odd years ago, Scotland, with the help of its government embarked on a mission to introduce every 9-year old in Scotland to the game of golf. ‘Club Golf Scotland’ presented this during the conference. Their project has been planned on a mega scale and its success is proof of what can be achieved with backing from the government. The conference ended with a panel discussion between Judy Murray (mother of Andy Murray), Ken Schofield (World Golf Hall of Fame member, and former Chief Executive of the European Tour), Bernard Gallacher (Europe’s Ryder Cup winning captain) and Gavin Hastings (former Scotland Rugby player). It was great to listen to their experiences, particularly Andy’s journey growing up.

 

Back in 1992, I was fortunate to win the All India Inter School and represent India and my school St Columba’s, at the Finals of the UK Foundation Schools Golf played in St Andrews. I went back to the Home of Golf after 22 years and with memories of a 17-year old. I recommend every golfer make a visit to St Andrews once to experience the history, heritage and the courses that the Home of Golf has to offer. Getting a chance to play Kingsbarns, the New Course at St Andrews, The Duke’s and the Archerfield Links was a real treat. I have some advice for myself that I have for my students all the time – go practice!

 

The timing of the conference meant that we had tickets to the practice rounds of the Ryder Cup. The moment you step on the venue, you understand that this is probably the biggest stage in golf. Being away for a week already, meant that we could not stay for the length of the event, much as we wanted to. I’ve been cheering for Europe since I was a kid, but a part of me also wanted to see Tom Watson triumph. In the end what appeared to be another closely contested battle slipped into the arms of the European.

 

I will surely be going back to the Home of Golf, sooner than later this time.

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