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09 October, 2008

Griffiths Thanks Dad After Pocketing Surprise Award

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Glyn Abbey head professional Darren Griffiths paid tribute to his father - former world snooker champion Terry - for kick starting his golf career after being named Golf Development Wales Professional of the Year.

Griffiths admitted he was shocked to have won the award, which recognises his efforts at grass roots level both at the Camarthenshire club and the wider community.

"I got into golf as a result of my dad and I have to hand it to him for getting me started," said the 35-year-old.

"Snooker didn't click with me at all. I went with my dad as a young boy but I didn't like being in the smoky halls as it was then.

"I spoke to him after I got my award and he's really chuffed."

Griffiths was nominated for the award but didn't think he had won on attending the presentation ceremony - until minutes before he was called to collect his honour.
"There were three professionals on my table and I just thought it was going to be one of them," he said.

"But they collected other awards and then it dawned on me I was the only one left and so was due to pick up the award.

"It's a great honour but I collected it on behalf of the club, who are tireless in their work on development."

Griffiths is modest in his achievement given the time he puts into grass roots golf throughout the year, which he admitted stacks up when you put it together.

"I work with the Special Olympics team, which is part funded by Golf Development Wales and the Golf Foundation.

"I have done some mentoring to level two and have someone assist with the coaching, which includes going to the local schools where we work with five to six hundred children throughout the winter.

"I've done some work with the PGA on their level 4 coaching certificate and done a lot at the club as I enjoy working at the grass roots level.

"I guess when you look it like that, it does add up."