Award gives Oli the confidence to succeed
It’s been a busy and successful year since 15-year-old Oli Walker received an award from the Trust.
He was elected Junior Captain at Ross-on-Wye Golf Club, led his junior team to the Midlands finals, and beat his twin brother Billy to retain his club’s junior championship title.
“The award has been a massive boost for me,” said Oli. “It’s not just the financial help, it’s the confidence it gives me to know I am being supported as I try to take my golf to the next level.
“I’ve used my grant to fund one-to-one coaching sessions with PGA Professional Zach Galliford and to upgrade some of my golf equipment. The support has already had a huge impact on my development, helping me to improve my technique and consistency throughout the season.
“Working with Zach has been a huge part of my progress, I really enjoy learning about the technical side of things with Zach, and I’m more motivated than ever to see what 2026 brings.”
Oli says 2025 was a busy and successful year. “I was elected Junior Captain, which was a real honour, and I got off to a great start in May by finishing 3rd in the Gloucestershire Golf Union U16 County Championships,” revealed Oli.
“That result earned me an exemption for the South West England U16 Open Championship in September – a fantastic experience that gave me a clear goal to work towards all summer.
“I also led the Ross-on-Wye Junior Team to the Midlands Finals Day after we won our division, and I successfully defended my Club Junior Championship title for the second year in a row – an especially memorable moment as I faced my twin brother in the final!
“Beyond the club, I represented Gloucestershire Golf Union U16s, competing regionally across the South West and consistently performing well in open events. One of my season highlights was shooting two solid rounds of 76 and 77 in September at the West of England U16 Championships, where the field was very strong and conditions were super tough.”
Oli started playing at junior school, inspired by his family, club and coaches. “Over the years I have developed a passion for the game and love the mix of technical skill, focus and competition that golf offers,” he said.
He plays several times a week, whether it’s practising alone, having lessons with his coach Zach, or playing with friends and his twin brother Billy. Both boys love the game and push each other to improve.
“Being part of such a supportive and competitive environment at Ross-on-Wye Golf Club really helps me to keep progressing,” added Oli.
“Golf means a lot to me – it’s something I’m truly passionate about. I love the challenge of trying to improve every part of my game, and it’s given me great discipline and focus. It’s also a sport that allows me to meet new people, visit lots of different courses in the country, and experience healthy competition – all while having fun.
“Looking ahead, my goal is to keep working with my coach to lower my handicap further from 5.3 and qualify again for the West of England U16 Championships in 2026.
“I want to continue representing Gloucestershire GGU, build on my competitive experience, and keep enjoying the game while balancing it with my GCSE studies in the coming year. I hope to eventually play some college golf, but that is a few years away yet.”
