GCMA Hosts Successful National AGM and Captain’s Cup at Gog Magog Golf Club

16 April 2025

The GCMA National AGM and Captain’s Cup competition took place on Thursday, 10th April 2025, at the stunning Gog Magog Golf Club. With glorious sunshine and a warm welcome from our hosts, the day proved a fantastic combination of business, camaraderie and competitive golf.

AGM Highlights

The day began with the formal AGM, which included two insightful and forward-looking reports from GCMA CEO, Tom Brooke. Tom spoke with clarity and purpose about the association’s recent progress, including the launch of the GCMA’s new Advanced Management Programme, amongst other new benefits and outlined exciting plans for the future, reinforcing the GCMA’s commitment to supporting golf club managers across the UK.

A significant moment in the meeting was the ceremonial change of guard, as Ray Grant officially took over the role of National Captain from John Barnard. Ray, a working manager, expressed sincere gratitude to his home club for their support and shared his aspirations for his captaincy year—focusing on member representation, championing professional development, and continuing to strengthen the GCMA community.

John Barnard reflected warmly on his captaincy, recounting the honour of representing England both home and away, and the many memorable meetings and connections made along the way. He encouraged others to grasp the opportunity to serve if it arises, calling it a privilege of the highest order.

The membership also welcomed Ray Chiltern as Captain Elect, who was officially confirmed and accepted by members present.

The AGM also saw the appointment of two new directors to the GCMA Board: Sean Boyle (Chesterfield GC) and Martin Robinson (Hurlston Hall G&CC). Both bring a wealth of experience and a passion for supporting the association’s continued growth.

A heartfelt thank you was given to Judy Barker, who stepped down from the Board after six years of dedicated service. Judy’s commitment, thoughtful contributions, and tireless efforts have been instrumental in guiding the association forward.

Finally, congratulations were extended to our long-standing President, J.R. Jones, who was confirmed for another year in office. J.R. continues to be a respected and steady presence on the Board — an exemplary ambassador for the GCMA and a true champion of golf club managers across the country.

For any members unable to attend, the AGM minutes will be added to the Members Hub (Governance section) in the coming weeks.

Captain’s Cup Golf Competition

With the business of the day complete, the focus shifted to the course for the annual Captain’s Cup—a better ball pairs competition that always provides great spirit and friendly rivalry.

The traditional Captain’s Drive-In saw new captain Ray Grant deliver a confident tee shot straight down the fairway, much to the delight of his playing partners: outgoing captain John Barnard and directors Scott Clark and Judy Barker.

Congratulations to Trevor Golton (Stowmarket Golf Club) and Andy Grimmitt (Haverhill Golf Club) who emerged victorious, finishing with a 2-point lead over runners-up Alan Davey (Past Captain) and James Hart (St Ives (Hunts) GC).

Special mentions also go to:

Reece Miller (Long Ashton GC), winner of the Longest Drive
John Tarling (Boyce Hill GC), winner of Nearest the Pin IN TWO
Robin Lawie (Seacroft GC), winner of Nearest the Pin on the 14th

The GCMA would like to extend a special thank you to Gog Magog Golf Club for their generous course courtesy and outstanding hospitality throughout the day. Their efforts helped make the event a true success, enjoyed by all in attendance.

By Mark Shanley

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John Steele

John Steele is a former professional athlete, sports coach, Olympic Leader and is the Executive Director of Sport at Loughborough University. He has been Chief Executive across a range of sectors. Drawing on leadership experience of nine different Olympic and Paralympic Games (including the amazing events at the Rio Games), John reflects on the lessons from this unique period in British sport and relays his fascinating views on creating high performing teams.

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Dr Jo Salter MBE

Dr Jo Salter MBE is famed for becoming the first female fast jet pilot, having flown the Panavia Tornado ground attack aircraft during her services in the Royal Air Force. Joining the RAF aged 18, Jo has since taken Air Cadets into the skies as part of Air Experience Flights, become the Director of Global Transformative Leadership for PWC, and most recently become a Global Advisory of GenAI for PwC.

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