Thousands of Horsham school kids set to swing to the same tune

Pupils at St Andrew’s Primary School in Nuthurst, Horsham were some of the first in a number of local schools to have a go at the sport, many for the first time.

The free sessions are being provided by professional coaches from the Mike Yorke Golf Academy, based at Horsham Golf and Fitness, as part of a new initiative aimed getting thousands of Horsham youngsters involved in golf over the next few years.

Mike explained: “Football and cricket are the mainstay of school sports but we want to make golf just as accessible to kids in Horsham. There is a misconception that golf has to be expensive and is stuffy but we want to change that culture long-term and show that anyone can play, boys and girls.”

As well as St Andrew’s, Castlewood in Southwater, Christ’s Hospital, Muntham House in Barns Green and Millais are some of the schools who will take up the free sessions, which place a bit emphasis on fun and social interaction.

The initiative has been made possible thanks to substantial three-year funding from local businessman Ashley Alina, who runs Right Track Recruitment in Warnham. Ashley said: “I didn’t get the chance to play golf at school so this will give thousands of children the opportunity to play the sport, regardless of their background.”

The Academy is also working with Horsham District Council to support other local community schemes. For information on getting golf to your youth group or school contact coach Dave Dickinson on 01403 271525.