IN THE 120-year history of Shanklin and Sandown Golf Club, they have not had many better ambassadors for them than Peter Hammond, who has been the Isle of Wight club's pro the past 30 years.
With coronavirus scuppering what should have been a great anniversary celebration last week for Peter, the club aim to mark the milestone with a special golf tournament this autumn.
Peter, the eighth professional in the club’s history, was appointed on June 1, 1990.
He came to Shanklin and Sandown with an excellent reputation in the sport.
Having started playing golf in 1973, Peter went on to become a successful amateur golfer — winning a number of titles at junior and senior levels.
His highlight was winning the coveted Carris Trophy in 1979, playing as a Great Britain and Ireland junior international.
Prior to him arriving at the Island club, Peter got his grounding for the role as an assistant professional at Goodwood and Bognor golf clubs.
Peter, who moved to the Isle of Wight with his wife, Sarah, said: “Making the move to the Island to take up the position of club head pro was a fantastic opportunity for me and my family,
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed myself at the club — helping to promote the enjoyment of golf, whether it be for players new to the game, or seasoned golfers.
“I am also incredibly pleased to have helped many juniors take up the game, with some progressing to become professional golfers themselves.”
Notably, some of Peter’s past juniors and assistants have gone on to start and manage international golf businesses, working globally, with three of his past assistants now working full time in the United States and China.
Chairman, Barry Guy, paid tribute to the huge contribution Peter has made to Shanklin and Sandown.
“The club has been incredibly lucky to have secured such a great PGA professional for the past 30 years,” he said.
“Peter has proved to be not only an excellent teacher, but a great ambassador for the club, where nothing is ever too much trouble for members or visitors alike.
“Although golf has just restarted at the club following the Covid-19 lockdown, it has not been possible to celebrate his 30th anniversary in the way it deserves.”
However, club captain, Shawn Ford, said he seeks to remedy that situation in the coming months.
“To mark Peter’s fantastic 30 years at the club, we are planning a golf competition and celebration day in October, which will enable all members and staff to come together to celebrate this milestone properly,” said Shawn.
Shanklin and Sandown Golf Club has something to offer golfers of all abilities. For more details, contact Peter via www.ssgolfclub.com/ or www.peterhammondpga.com/about
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