University of the Highlands & Islands student  Michael Schinkel from Kirkwall, has been awarded a scholarship from international golfing organisation, The R&A.

Michael along with 4 other UHI students Jamie Macintosh from Inverness, Kieran McCormick from Glasgow, Alistair McNaughton from Paisley and Riccardo Cellerino  from Italy, have each received between £750 and £1000. The money will support the students to compete at an elite level in regional and golf national competitions, including the British Universities and Colleges Sport tournament.

UHI offers a BA (Hons) in golf management and a BA (Hons) in professional golf at North Highland College UHI’s campus in Dornoch, where it has developed strong links with the Royal Dornoch Golf Club.

Alan Fleming, programme leader of golf curriculum and university coach, said:

“Our golf curriculum is an important area for the university and, part of this, is our performance programme. This includes providing our students with daily access to excellent practice and training facilities as well as our Level 3 coaches. The relationship with Royal Dornoch Golf Club also provides excellent playing and practice opportunities. We are delighted our relationship with the R&A has progressed and our golf programme has been recognised for support alongside the Foundation Scholarship awards.”

 Jackie Davidson, assistant director – golf development at the R&A, commented:

“We are committed to supporting the next generation of golfers to reach their potential, as well as encouraging young people to look towards the career prospects and opportunities the golf industry has to offer.

“The University of the Highlands and Islands has invested heavily in its golf programme in recent years and we look forward to continuing to work collaboratively to achieve our mutual aims.”