After 43 years, Gary Brown has retired as Ganton’s professional, with Oli Adamson taking the reigns
PGA professional Gary Brown has bid a fond farewell to the Ganton pro shop after 43 years at the club.
Having arrived as an 18-year-old from his role as an assistant at Silkstone in Barnsley, Gary has enjoyed a long and successful career at Ganton. A respected coach – who will retain his role with the Yorkshire county boys’ programme – he is also aiming to build on his success on the course in the years ahead – which has included playing in the PGA Cup in 2011 and winning the 2025 PGA Super 60s title with amateur partner Graham Cook.
“Leaving Ganton on my last day at work was very sad, but after 43 years it was time and I’m delighted that Oli will be taking on the role,” said Gary. “Leaving the job in good hands was very important and I’m keen to see Oli make it his own and grow even more as a professional.
“I loved my 43 years at Ganton – six as assistant and 37 as professional. The tournaments – from Walker and Curtis cups to the Amateur Championship – were brilliant occasions and I’m proud to have been at the club for those. I’ve also met so many great people, which is a real perk of the job. The changes in the game have been huge in that time – and the course has evolved with those. Coaching has evolved too, and that constant development has kept things fresh.
“I won’t be disappearing overnight as I’ll be keeping on a bit of coaching, and I’m still keen to play and compete so I’ll be around.”
For 29-year-old Oli, the step up to become Ganton’s professional follows nine years working for Gary, beginning with his PGA training in 2017.
“I’m honoured to take on the role as Ganton’s professional from a fantastic mentor, role model and friend,” said Oli, who played his junior and amateur golf at Pike Hills. “To have Gary’s support is brilliant, and while the final handover was a bit emotional for both of us, I’ve no doubt I’ll be seeing plenty of him.”
Oli has already welcomed Jodie Himsworth to his team and is set to develop his business further this year.
“I’ve already begun to put my stamp on things, making some changes to the shop and behind the scenes which have been positive.
“I’m also getting my team in place and Jodie has been a great addition. I want to support people the same way Gary did, that’s really important, and from there the job is all about providing a fantastic service to members and guests across the board. I’m also keen to emulate how Gary maintained a real passion for playing and I’ll be competing on the PGA circuit this season.
“There’s a lot to look forward to, with some exciting plans to develop our offering and facilities even further, and I’m excited for the future.”
