BIGGA Members Selected for Prestigious Bernhard Academy Delegation to GCSAA Conference 2026

BIGGA Delegation Set for Prestigious GCSAA Conference in Orlando

The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) has announced an exciting opportunity for its members, selecting ten dedicated greenkeepers to represent the UK at the Golf Course Superintendent Association of America’s (GCSAA) Conference and Trade Show in Orlando, Florida, from February 2 to 5, 2026. This initiative, in partnership with Bernhard Academy, highlights the commitment to professional development within the sports turf industry.

Every two years, Bernhard Academy invites ten BIGGA members to participate in this prestigious event, marking them as some of the most talented ambassadors in the golf greenkeeping sector. The selected delegates will engage in a week-long educational experience that includes site visits, seminars, networking events, and hands-on demonstrations designed to elevate their careers.

The chosen delegates for the 2026 BIGGA Delegation are:

• Andrew Gibbs – Deputy Head Greenkeeper, Sunningdale Golf Club
• Michael Sage – Head Greenkeeper, Knowle Golf Club
• John Stewart – Course Manager, Minchinhampton Golf Club
• Dan Kendle – Head Greenkeeper, Newquay Golf Club
• Ruth Etches – First Assistant, Trentham Golf Club
• Jack Wellings – Deputy Course Manager, JCB Golf and Country Club
• Ian Kirwan – Course Manager, Bramhall Golf Club
• Michael Gibbons – Greenkeeper, The Wilmslow Golf Club
• Ryan Gall – Greenkeeper, Loch Lomond Golf Club
• Stuart Fergusson – Deputy Course Manager, Trump Turnberry

Michael Sage, Head Greenkeeper at Knowle Golf Club, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I’m really grateful to have been chosen for the BIGGA Delegation. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn from industry leaders and bring back new ideas that can help us at Knowle to keep improving.”

Ryan Gall, representing Loch Lomond Golf Club, echoed this sentiment, saying, “To be chosen is a massive career achievement for me. I’m really looking forward to experiencing the event first-hand and seeing the very latest innovations in turf management.”

The delegation will also participate in the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition (BTME) in January, where they will connect with former participants who have achieved great success in their careers.

For more information about the BIGGA Delegation and the exclusive career development opportunities available to members, visit the BIGGA website. This initiative not only showcases the talent within the UK greenkeeping community but also reinforces the importance of continuous learning and innovation in the industry.