Mark Pirie will start his sixth season in charge at Pitlochry Golf Course in 2008. He took over from Mr George Hampton who retired in January 2003. This is Mark’s first professional post having been an assistant at three previous courses and one driving range since the spring of 1992.

Murrayshall GC, near Scone, on the northeast outskirts of Perth, was his first placement under PGA professional Neil MacKintosh. Turning professional and signing the forms to “turn in” his amateur status took place in August 1994. After three successful seasons, Mark moved to Craigie Hill GC and had three notable seasons under PGA professional Steven Harrier. He competed routinely on the Scottish Assistants tour and on the “Tartan Tour” with varying degrees of success.

Through his continued on-site training and follow up residential courses with the PGA, Mark passed the final examinations at the first attempt to become a full member of said PGA in December 1997. Shortly after a short spell at Noah’s Ark Driving Range, a move to Crieff GC came in 1998, gaining more invaluable experience under PGA professional David Murchie. Further playing opportunities came with measured return, but there came a realisation that playing for his dinner would leave him starving!! With some common sense thinking, it became apparent that teaching was more than just a supplement to the wages. Mark has always enjoyed working towards the promotion of the juniors in and around the golf courses he has worked at. Through a close relationship with the Golf Foundation, there have been 10 golf course junior sections and 12 primary schools, which have benefited from his endeavours to keep the lifeblood of the game flowing. Changing promotional schemes have allowed Mark to reach junior golfers and potential champions of the future not easily accessed. The Golf Foundation’s Tri-Golf programme, for example, was implemented through a pilot scheme in Strathearn and Highland Perthshire with Mark an avid fan. It is hoped that more school children will receive the chance to taste this great game of golf soon, before being tempted by other activities.

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