West Midlands: Pro retires after half a century at club
One of the world’s longest-serving golf professionals is set to retire after more than half a century at the same club.
Tony Rees, 75, has been at Oxford since 1959 – a stint of 56 years – but will retire at the end of February.
“Golf pros often have a short lifespan at clubs and then they move on,” said Rees. “I think I’m looking forward to retiring and over the last couple of days other pros have been ringing me to congratulate me.
‘Tony has been a great servant for the club’ “I think the last day will be an emotional one for me, but I will do my best not to cry.”
Assistant Joe Pepperell will be promoted into the top role, making him only the third head professional in the club’s 110-year history.
The 25-year-old has been Rees’ deputy for seven years and said: “Following in Tony’s footsteps is a challenge. I’ve learnt a lot from him about the traditions here and he’s been a great servant for the club and golf in the local area.”
Pepperell said among his priorities will be increasing participation among youngsters, and he plans to rope on younger brother Eddie, now in his third season on the European Tour.
