Tewkesbury Academy student Brendan Hoole has achieved remarkable success in the golfing world, securing first place in the County Championships and third place in the Schools’ County Championships.
The competition, held at Henbury Golf Course, saw the 15-year-old test his skills against a field of around 60 competitors. Brendan’s outstanding performance came in the under 18 category for the schools’ championships and under 16 for the county.
Brendan, who was inspired to take up the sport by his father, began playing golf at the age of seven. He is a dedicated member of Tewkesbury Park Hotel and has been under the expert guidance of golf coach Jordan Aubrey for the past three years.
Golf is more than just a sport for Brendan; it is a full-time passion. He plays three to four times a week, including weekends and evenings, and also dedicates time to practice during the week.
Brendan, who is in Year 11, said: “I have put lots of dedication into my training – this is my passion. I’m coming back to this level following the end of last year when I was really ill with a stomach condition. I spent six weeks in hospital, so my goal is to keep getting better. I’m not going to let that setback cloud over my mind. I am aiming for my goals and will focus on them.
“I would like to thank my mum and dad for pushing me and for encouraging me to turn professional. From September I will be attending Hartpury College and will be a part of the Hartpury Elite squad. From this, a select few students can go to the United States for a college scholarship – this is my main aim in the next few years. I will be practising a lot!”
Brendan’s future in golf looks promising as he has qualified for higher regional events. He will compete in the under 18 Gloucester Golf Union Championship on June 30 at Knowle, and the Kendalshire Open on July 25, which offers a £250 prize.
Kathleen McGillycuddy, Principal of Tewkesbury Academy, said: “Brendan is an impressive young man – talented, hardworking, kind and polite. He is a great example to other young people and shows that the power of resilience and decency brings rewards. I am excited about his future in the sport and look forward to seeing him in the British Open or on the fairway in Augusta in due course!”