About Barney
My Profile
I turned professional in 1979 and very fortunately secured an assistant professionals position with Ian Connelly at Dyrham Park Golf Club. Ian was one of the most foremost teachers of the day, coaching many fine players and writing for golf magazines. He was best known for being Nick Faldo's original coach and I still use some of his ideas to this day.
Having completed my PGA training I decided to play full time and over a five year period competed in PGA events at local and national level. I also chanced my arm in some European Tour Events and at the height of my self belief tried to qualify for the US Open. Highlights for me were winning the Hertfordshire PGA Assistants and of Order of Merit in one year. I also became the South of England Under 25 Champion and after that competed in events in France, Spain & Italy. My favourite memory was tying Greg Norman for 3rd place in a 36 hole tournament in Cannes, behind Corey Pavin. After that, from a golfing perspective, we all went our separate ways!
I finished full time playing in 1987 and became the Head Professional at Ramsey Golf Club, subsequently moved to Harpenden Common and then to Metro Golf Centre. In 2000 the opportunity presented itself to come to Mid Herts Golf Club and I have been happily here for over 15 years.
Coaching Achievements
I have given over 35,000 lessons and counting!
Herts First Team Coach 1994- 2006
Involved in coaching at Boys U18, U16 and U14 levels in Hertfordshire since 1993
Currently Hertfordshires Girls U16 Coach
Worked individually with over 150 County golfers and have had several pupils go on to play for their country.
Currently working with a dozen fellow golf professionals.
Official Coach to Times Corporate Golf Challenge, 1999 - 2006
Golf Monthly magazine teaching panelist since 2003
Voted into UK Top 25 Coaches in 2006
Golf Schools in the UK and abroad
Putting clinics with putting guru and YES putter inventor, Harold Swash
Hosted Golf Psychology sessions with top man Karl Morris
Short game clinics with 5 time Ryder Cup player, Ken Brown
Coach to the William Hunt Trilby Tour in association with Sky Sports