Next generation shines as Faldo Futures Finals reaches record-breaking numbers

25/06/2025

The Faldo Futures are celebrating a highly successful Regional Qualifying week that saw record-breaking levels of participation and equally impressive enthusiasm from junior golfers across the United Kingdom. Over 600 youngsters aged 7 to 12 years of age playing in ten Regional Qualifiers during May half-term, with 200 now set to take on The Belfry in August at the National Finals.

Since its inception last year, Faldo Futures has experienced remarkable growth. In just its second season, over 2,000 junior golfers have participated in more than 100 qualifying events nationwide between March and May 2025, effectively doubling the participation compared to 2024. This surge underscores the programme’s pivotal role in nurturing grassroots talent and providing structured, enjoyable competitive opportunities for young players.

The recent Regional Finals showcased exceptional talent and sportsmanship. Notable performances included Jeremy Ju’s three-under 36 at Worsley Park and Tilly Bordman’s stunning three-under 33 at Matfen Hall. These events not only provided competitive platforms but also fostered community engagement and enthusiasm for junior golf.

“It’s been a fantastic week for so many of our young players,” said Matthew Faldo, Director of the Faldo Series. “The level of talent on display has been remarkable, and what stands out even more is the enthusiasm these juniors bring. It’s great to see them embracing the Futures and growing their love for the game.”

Among the many PGA Professionals supporting the initiative was Adam Lynn of Carus Green Golf Club, who shared how impactful the experience was for his junior academy:

"The Faldo Futures was a fantastic experience for me and my junior academy.

"It provided an excellent opportunity for our young players to compete in a structured environment and get a real taste of the next level of the game.

"Having a lot of younger juniors within our junior academy, this competition provided the perfect motivation for them early in the season to get their games ready for and to also get out in the golf course. We had 12 juniors from our junior academy participate in the Qualifier with a total of 35 juniors playing alright travelling from all over Cumbria, Lancashire, Yorkshire and Northumberland. Playing from our junior tees which measure from 1700 to 2200 yards is a perfect way for them develop their games.

"5 of the juniors I coach made it through to the Regional Final and in the month in between the events you definitely saw the juniors ramp up their practice and I was able to take some juniors out in the course within my 1:1 lessons to provide them with some ideas around strategy and course management in preparation for the event.

"Tournaments like these play a vital role in encouraging more juniors to get involved in golf and take that step toward becoming active club members. We have already signed up to host again next year and hope to have more of our own junior academy players and members playing next year as well as welcoming other players from around the region to our course."

Strategic partnerships have been instrumental in the success of Faldo Futures. Collaborations with organisations like the Stephen Gallacher Foundation in Scotland and the Robert Rock Junior Golf Tour in the Midlands have facilitated co-sanctioned events, providing young players with valuable competitive experiences and a structured pathway forward. Additionally, support from partners such as Crown Golf and The Club Company has been crucial in sustaining and expanding the programme.

Looking ahead, the Faldo Futures Final is set to take place at The Belfry on August 20-21, 2025, during the week of the British Masters. This event will bring together 200 of the UK’s most talented young golfers, offering them the opportunity to compete on a grand stage and experience the thrill of high-level competition.

PGA Members interested in hosting a Faldo Futures event at their facility can register their interest today. This presents an excellent opportunity for both PGA Members and their golf clubs to support junior golf and expand junior sections.

For more information and to register, visit www.faldoseries.com.