The PGA will once again play a key role at the 153rd Open Championship, taking place from 13–20 July 2025 at Royal Portrush, with 24 PGA Members delivering free coaching sessions to spectators at The R&A’s Swingzone.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the R&A Swingzone delivered by PGA Members, a milestone that reflects a quarter-century of PGA commitment to growing the game through expert coaching. Notably, Geraint Dixon, who re-joins the coaching team this year, was also part of the original Swingzone team in 2000.
Located in the heart of the Spectator Village, the R&A's Swingzone is one of The Open’s most popular fan engagement experiences, offering complimentary 15-minute golf lessons to visitors of all ages and skill levels. Managed by The R&A and delivered by PGA Members, the sessions give both newcomers and experienced golfers the chance to work on their swing with Top Tracer technology once again enhancing the coaching experience in the coaching bays.
The initiative builds on an impressive 2024 showing at Royal Troon, where PGA Professionals delivered 3,244 lessons across the week, including 890 to juniors. The interactive coaching area includes 12 teaching areas including a chipping zone, putting green, Longest Putt challenge and the Golf Ireland/Golf Foundation’s Golfway activities area, helping to create an inclusive and fun environment for all.
This year’s PGA team features several notable achievements among its coaches, including newly awarded PGA Master Coach Denise Hastings and PGA Advanced Professional Harriet Matthews. The pair were among the latest recipients recognised in the PGA Excel Awards for their continued excellence and lasting impact on coaching - an impact sure to be on display at Royal Portrush.
Head of Golf at Malvern College and Swingzone debutant, Harriet Matthews, said:
“It’s a great honour to be asked to take part in the Swingzone. Not everyone gets that opportunity, and with this being my first Open, it’s a real privilege.
“What makes this experience so special is the diversity of people you meet.
“From complete beginners to elite players, every lesson is different and that’s what I love. It challenges me as a coach.
“The Swingzone breaks down barriers that often stop people from getting into golf. Here, it’s all about having fun, getting involved, and realising the game is for everyone. It reminds us why we fell in love with golf in the first place.”
As part of a renewed partnership, Scottish golf apparel brand Glenmuir will also return as official clothing partner, kitting out the coaching team throughout the week. Highlighting their ongoing support of PGA activity, Glenmuir will provide the 2025 coaching team with premium golf shirts, knitwear, and outerwear, helping them perform and look their best as they deliver expert guidance to thousands of visitors.
Allan Martin, PGA Coach and Education & Development Manager, added: “The SwingZone is about more than golf—it’s about inspiring confidence and sparking joy in every participant. Glenmuir’s support helps our team look and feel their best as they give back to the game we all love.”
PGA Members at this years’ R&A Swingzone are:
Ian Bailey, David Bartlett, Sarah Bennett, Ian Blair, Victoria Bradshaw, Alan Bradshaw, Kevin Caplehorn, Jamie Cundy, Neil Curtis, Thomas Devine, Geraint Dixon, Tom Gibbs, Martin Goldie, Natalie Goodall, Denise Hastings, Rhys Leggett, Sean Marks, Harriet Matthews, Alistair McDiarmid, Jordan Patmore, Michael Stanford, Vivian Teague, Connor Thomas, James Tuck.
