The Belfry rewarded for seeing the BIGGA Picture

Four-time Ryder Cup venue The Belfry has received a special award in recognition of the support given to Director of Golf Courses and Grounds Kenny MacKay during his year as Chairman of the British & International Golf Greenkeepers' Association.

Nigel Gray, Operations Manager UK for Quinn Hotels, was presented with a plaque by John Pemberton, Chief Executive of BIGGA, as a thank-you for allowing Kenny time to represent the Association at meetings, functions and exhibitions throughout 2008.

"We are very lucky to have somebody as knowledgeable and hard-working as Kenny, and we were delighted when he was voted in as Chairman of BIGGA," said Nigel. "We knew how much the role meant to him and we were only too pleased to help him make the most of this prestigious opportunity."

Kenny, who ended his year in office in January but remains on the association's Board, added: "My time as Chairman has been one of the highlights of my career, so I am extremely grateful for all the support I received from The Belfry. They allowed me to strike a fine balance between my role with BIGGA and my day-to-day duties of keeping the resort's three courses in first-class condition."

BIGGA is the leading authority in golf course management, boasting over 7,000 members around the UK and overseas.

Image: (from l to r) John Pemberton, Kenny MacKay and Nigel Gray