From the Gulf to golf (From Basingstoke Gazette)

From the Gulf to golf

1:00pm Tuesday 17th January 2012 in General By John Boyman

TEACHING youngsters how to play golf may be a world away from fighting Saddam Hussein in Iraq – but a north Hampshire golf professional has successfully bridged the gap.

John Trench, a former Royal Artillery major, is now playing an important part in transforming the fortunes of Test Valley Golf Club’s junior section in his role as academy manager.

The 54-year-old spent 35 years in the army, taking tours of duty in Iraq, Bosnia and Kosovo, among others. He got into golf during his time in the service, captaining the army team at one stage, before deciding to embark on a second career as a professional when he retired four years ago.

Trench said: “As a career soldier nearing 50 it was time to think about my family. I knew I wanted to be a PGA professional but there were a few raised eyebrows when I told my family and friends.”

After passing the playing ability test, Trench had spells at two clubs before joining Test Valley, where he has overseen the junior academy rise from a handful of youngsters to a thriving section with 80 juniors regularly using the facilities.

“You have to be able to take yourself down to the kids’ level,” he added. “It has got to be fun and safe and you have to communicate.

“I feel very privileged to be in this position having just done all of the training. I am very fortunate to be running a junior academy. Every day is a golf day so I am living the dream.”