Mr Kirkham, 24, took his first swing at The Gailes driving range back in 2005 when he was just three years old. Inspired by his grassroots golfing experience, he later joined The Gailes’ Juniors Do Golf programme from 2010 to 2012.
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As a junior he played at Troon Welbeck and represented Ayrshire on multiple occasions before turning professional in September 2022. He completed his PGA training at Dundonald Links in 2025 and has also competed on the Tartan Pro Tour, as well as playing at various open golf venues around Scotland, Spain and Portugal.
Under the leadership of head pro Scott Garrett, Mr Kirkham is now coaching individual and group classes for all abilities at The Gailes.
“The Gailes is where my passion for golf really ignited as part of the Juniors Do Golf programme in 2010,” he said. “Coming back to the venue 20 years later as a PGA professional has an even greater personal significance for me and an achievement that I’m extremely proud of.
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“I fell in love with golf because it’s in my family. My dad was a huge factor in getting me started in the game. I’m now the third generation in a row of professionals, which is pretty cool.
“Being part of The Gailes’ PGA pro team, I’m really looking forward to coaching people of all ages and abilities and helping them be the best player they can be. Ultimately, I want to encourage more people into the sport, inspire the next generation of golfing talent, and put my coaching skills to the test.”
The Gailes, which has the largest junior programme in the west of Scotland, is owned by Ayrshire hospitality group SimpsInns. The hotel has immediate access to Dundonald Links, Western Gailes and Gailes Links, with Royal Troon, Turnberry and Prestwick within easy reach.
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(Image: Damian Shields)