Is it any wonder, then that Loretto boasts its own highly successful Golf Academy? 2012 sees the Loretto Golf Academy celebrate its 10th anniversary and what a meteoric rise it has been. As the late Alex Hay, one of the most respected golf commentators of his time, explained, “Loretto’s ties with golf go back a long way and the Golf Academy is a most exciting initiative.”
From a humble beginning of six golfers back in 2002, to a current capacity of 50 young golfers, places in Loretto’s Golf Academy are keenly prized. Loretto is the most decorated Golf School in Europe. Rick Valentine, Loretto ‘s Director of Golf, has overseen the Golf Academy’s spectacular success.
Rick’s golfing pedigree is impressive too; he was born in Dubai and raised in England where he completed a Sports Science Degree. After university he moved to the USA to attend the San Diego Golf Academy to work on his own game, as well as achieving an Associate degree in Golf Complex Management and Golf Professional. Rick moved to Hong Kong and pursued his amateur career for three years. He represented Hong Kong in the Eisenhower Trophy (World Amateur Team Championships), Nomura Cup (Asia Pacific Team Championships) and Putra Cup (South East Asia Team Championships), as well as many other international events; he won the China Amateur in 2000 as well as being the leading amateur in the Hong Kong Open in 2001 and 2002. Having returned to the UK in 2003, Rick competed in the Qualifying School for the Euro Pro Tour; he won a card and turned professional. Since joining Loretto Rick has also completed the Foundation Degree through the University of Birmingham and is now an AA PGA Professional. Rick has also completed his Level 1 and Level 2 ASQ coaching certificates for golf.
