Myerscough learners enjoy USA adventure after winning Greenkeeper of Year

Published: Tuesday 14 Feb 2023

Two Myerscough College apprentices jetted off to the USA as part of their prize for being named Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year.

James Gaskell was named winner of the 2022 Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year, a prestigious national industry award, hosted by the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association, BIGGA, and is sponsored by turfcare machinery and irrigation manufacturer Toro alongside official UK distributor, Reesink Turfcare.

Part of the prize for winning is all-expenses paid trip to the GCSAA Conference and Show, which this year was staged in Florida.

James was joined on the trip by 2021 winner, fellow Myerscough learner Matt Milligan.

Myerscough a cut above in Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards

Last week, James and Matt jetted off with work-based assessor, Andy Kenworthy, for the GCSAA Conference in Orlando, for an unforgettable experience.

The trade show, the largest annual event in the turfgrass management industry, covered nearly 250,000 square feet of exhibition space at the Orange County Convention Center and hosted nearly 450 exhibitors, as well as talks and keynote speakers.

James is the Ripon City Golf Club Deputy Course Manager, and is currently studying on the new Advanced Golf Greenkeeper apprenticeship Standard with Myerscough. Meanwhile Matt is currently First Assistant at Rudding Park.

James said: ‘’It was an amazing and unforgettable week at the GCSAA Conference.

‘’Thanks to Reesink Turfcare and Toro for their generosity and hospitality. Some great friendships were built and made and I can't wait for future experiences with this fantastic company and people.’’

Andy Kenworthy added: ‘’What an amazing week at the GCSAA Conference.

‘’For any apprentice looking to further your career like James, then get your applications in for the Toro Greenkeeper of the Year 2023. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.’’