Can the Faldo Futures fuel a new passion for golf?
The Faldo Futures aims to give young golfers an experience that will energise them for “years to come”. Here’s what’s in store
No handicaps required, 9-hole competitions, and a chance to play on a Ryder Cup stage – Sir Nick Faldo has launched a new event to forge the next generation of golfers.
The Faldo Futures, aimed at young UK players aged between seven and 12, is designed to offer enthusiastic youngsters a blend of “competition, camaraderie, and skill development”.
It will allow those just starting out in the game to experience the thrill of competitive golf in a supportive environment, while also forging lasting friendships with other youngsters developing a passion for the game.
While the Faldo Futures is competitive, with local qualifying and regional finals leading to a national final, there is also an emphasis on fun with no handicaps required to play a shortened 9-hole gross competition.
Faldo Futures: ‘Fostering the next generation of golfing talent’
More than 60 clubs have already lined up to hold qualifiers over the Easter Holidays – and there is still a chance for venues who want to play host to the next set of potential stars to get involved.
With six different categories for boys and girls (ages 7-8, 9-10, and 11-13), 12 winners from each event will move onto the next stage – held at the end of May and beginning of June – before The Belfry gives the finalists the chance to showcase their skills on a national stage on August 28.
Sir Nick Faldo said: “The Faldo Futures is the latest part of my charitable trust, The Faldo Series, and is committed to fostering the next generation of golfing talent and promoting inclusivity within the sport.
“With a focus in fun, fairness and skill development, we aim to provide young players with memorable experiences that will fuel their passion for golf for years to come.”
Golfers looking to register for a qualifier can find out more about the Faldo Futures Series by visiting the website. Clubs that are willing to host a qualifier can click here.
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Steve Carroll
A journalist for 25 years, Steve has been immersed in club golf for almost as long. A former club captain, he has passed the Level 3 Rules of Golf exam with distinction having attended the R&A's prestigious Tournament Administrators and Referees Seminar.
Steve has officiated at a host of high-profile tournaments, including Open Regional Qualifying, PGA Fourball Championship, English Men's Senior Amateur, and the North of England Amateur Championship. In 2023, he made his international debut as part of the team that refereed England vs Switzerland U16 girls.
A part of NCG's Top 100s panel, Steve has a particular love of links golf and is frantically trying to restore his single-figure handicap. He currently floats at around 11.
Steve plays at Close House, in Newcastle, and York GC, where he is a member of the club's matches and competitions committee and referees the annual 36-hole scratch York Rose Bowl.
Having studied history at Newcastle University, he became a journalist having passed his NTCJ exams at Darlington College of Technology.
What's in Steve's bag: TaylorMade Stealth 2 driver, 3-wood, and hybrids; Caley 01T irons 4-PW; TaylorMade Hi-Toe wedges, Ping ChipR, Sik Putter.
