Devon golf course teeing up an exciting future with new PGA manager

Mary
Authored by Mary
Posted: Sunday, September 10, 2023 - 06:38

A golf course in Devon is teeing up an exciting new future after appointing its new PGA Golf Manager.

Rob Selley has joined Bovey Castle to lead a new era for its 18-hole championship golf course. 

Designed in 1926 by J F Abercromby, one of the finest British golf course designers of the last century, the course meanders through the hotel estate and is surrounded by idyllic landscape. 

Selley brings with him more than 30 years of experience in the industry, joining after 27 years at Teignmouth Golf Club where he rose through the ranks to become Club PGA Professional & Golf Operations Manager.

The Teignmouth local is aiming to revamp the course at Bovey Castle to make it more inclusive for all levels, develop the junior and ladies’ programme, and introduce a string of new tournaments.

Selley, who has grown up in golf and started his first role part-time aged 14, said: “I’m passionate about delivering exceptional service and creating memorable golf experiences for members and guests at all levels, and the opportunity to do that at an iconic venue such as Bovey Castle is one I am really excited about.

“Bovey Castle is a beautiful course which people love, but is also a real challenge, so one of the things I am looking to do it make it more accessible for all whilst remaining one of the best Championship courses around.

“Over the coming weeks we will be finalising the new season schedule and within that we will be confirming a host of exciting new tournaments, while we will be in a position to share further plans to provide an inclusive course for modern day golf at a later stage.”

The 20th-century Bovey Castle was built in 1907 and has a long history with golf, first opening as a hotel and golf resort in 1930. 

Earlier this year, its golf course was named as one of the top 100 golf courses in Britain by Golf World.

Dean Gunston, General Manager at Bovey Castle, added: “Rob is a tremendous asset for Bovey Castle as we look to grow and develop the golf offering to members and non-members alike. 

“Our commitment to that is not only seen with the key appointment of Rob, but also several new appointments, growing our greenkeepers team, and forming a new management structure.

“This really is a significant step and signals an exciting time for golf at Bovey Castle.”

Set within 275 acres of beautiful countryside in Dartmoor National Park, North Bovey, Bovey Castle is a 5 Red Star hotel owned by luxury hotel group The Eden Hotel Collection, offering 60 bedrooms throughout the historic manor, and 22 self-catering country lodges. 

It also provides two on-site restaurants The Great Western Grill and Smith’s Brasserie, and activities including falconry, archery and 4x4 off-road driving.

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