GAVIN KAVANAGH NAMED 87TH PGA CAPTAIN

The PGA has announced that Gavin Kavanagh will serve as the Association’s 87th Captain, continuing a legacy of leadership and dedication that has defined his professional journey to date.

An Honorary Member of The PGA since 2021, Kavanagh will assume the role in late March 2027, succeeding David Llewellyn. In doing so, he joins a distinguished list of Captains that includes PGA co-founders James Braid, Harry Vardon and JH Taylor, three-time Open Champion Sir Henry Cotton, Ryder Cup captains Dai Rees and Bernard Gallacher and the voice of golf himself, Peter Alliss.

Kavanagh began his professional journey in 1994 and has built an impressive career both on and off the golf course. After completing the PGA Training Programme, he was appointed PGA Head Professional at Delgany Golf Club in 1995 – a position he has held ever since.

Over the past three decades, Kavanagh has overseen the development of the thriving pro shop and coaching business at Delgany, where he is widely regarded as one of PGA in Ireland’s most accomplished coaches.

“It was a fantastic phone call to receive from our Chairman Alan [White] and when he invites you to become Captain, your immediate reaction is one of pride and joy,” Kavanagh commented.

“Having just a few minutes to digest the call, I felt elation but also a huge responsibility to fulfil the role to the best of my ability.

“I’ve enjoyed being part of The PGA family for over 30 years and I’ve been very lucky to have met fellow Members and dedicated staff within The PGA who have always been available and generous with their time to help me improve as a PGA Member every day.

“The PGA represents everything that’s great about the game of golf: professionalism, integrity, inclusion and continued learning and education. PGA Members deliver these pillars every day to ensure all golfers can reach their potential and enjoy the game we all love to play.

“I would hope to bring experience and total commitment to the role, understanding that the Captain has a responsibility to ensure the core values of The PGA are represented at the highest level, on and off the course.”

His commitment to continuous learning has seen him complete the PGA Director of Golf Qualification in 2014, as well as earning Fellow status within his category of PGA Professional.

But the Irishman’s involvement with The PGA stretches well beyond his work at club level. He has held numerous leadership roles, including Captain of The PGA in Ireland in 2005 before becoming Chairman from 2007 to 2012. His voice was a consistent presence on the Irish Regional Committee for 14 years, and he has also contributed at national level, representing fellow Members on the board of The PGA.

In addition to his professional achievements, Kavanagh has long been committed to supporting charitable courses, particularly those connected to Down Syndrome awareness and support. Through various fundraising efforts – including an annual Pro-Am tournament at Delgany – he has helped raise more than €500,000.

“The role of PGA Captain is both an honour and a responsibility, and Gavin joins a select group of individuals who have represented the Association with pride,” said Alan White, Chairman of The PGA.

“Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the professionalism, integrity and passion that define what it means to be a PGA Member. He’s built a lasting legacy as a coach, a leader within the Association and a tireless advocate for charitable causes.

“He brings with him a depth of experience, a deep connection to the PGA community and a genuine commitment to the values we stand for. There’s no question he will represent the Association with excellence and dedication throughout his captaincy.”

Kavanagh concluded: “It is definitely the highlight of my personal and professional life to be PGA Captain for 2027.

“I will put my heart and soul into the role to champion the everyday life of my fellow PGA Members who are dedicated to delivering excellence in the game of golf.

“I hope they would see me as an approachable fellow Member who is always available to mentor, support and encourage them when needed in whatever stage of their career that may be.

“I would like The PGA for trusting me with the honour and privilege of being their Captain and I am looking forward to meeting as many Members as possible during the year.”

Pga.info