Royal Birkdale hosts this week’s Open Championship, but Wales has no fielding players as the last Welshman, Oliver Farr, competed in 2023. The nation’s Open record remains poor, and the highest‑ranked Welsh golfer is 29‑year‑old Jack Davidson, world 953rd. Wales Golf believes better days are ahead and is building a new pathway for talent.

Performance director Gareth Jenkins, who joined Wales Golf in 2024 after a decade with England Golf, is steering the programme. He stresses the need to “look at the pathway, look at the players who are coming through, see where we can improve” and to grow the sport from club level to the professional ranks.

The focus is on juniors, with regional development schemes launched over the last two years. Success stories include Darcey Harry, who earned an LET card after a strong amateur career, and Bradley Dredge’s offer to mentor young pros.

Looking ahead, Jenkins Lifestyle will bring former pros like Stuart Manley and Natalie Powell into the coaching team. He sees players such as James Ashfield and Tomi Bowen as future tour‑ready stars, expecting a significant leap in five to six years.