In 2019 we awarded a Micro Fund grant of £5,000 to Mountain Ash Golf Club based in Cefnpennar.
In March 2018, they were recognised as Junior Golf Club of the Year 2017 by Golf Wales. In March 2016 the club had 1 junior member and embarked on an initiative to increase junior members, and worked with Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council Sports Department, Cynon Valley schools, Wales Golf and the Sports Wales. At the time of application, the club had 61 members aged 4-17 years. However, they lacked space for practice facilities. They identified a within the confines of the course and secured match funding of £23,000 from Sports Wales.
The application to Pen y Cymoedd was successful because: they had match funding / plan was clearly thought out and would have direct impact for junior membership as well as wider membership. This facility would allow junior members to continue to improve and be able to practice in safety without being restricted to a specific time for practice sessions.
Around 450 trees were removed to create the practice area but as part of plan they planted 600 trees to replace those lost. They were donated by Woodland Trust and Groundwork UK. They engaged with local schools to help with planting the saplings. The practice area is fully operational now and was opened following initial lockdown. The junior section is using it for their Saturday coaching sessions as planned. A number of our members regularly use the practice area.
Membership has increased by 125 people in the last 15 months ago and junior membership levels maintained. As they emerge fully from lockdown, they are excited to allow all members, old and new back to site playing sport in a beautiful, well-resourced environment.