Chris Stonadge, who is on work experience with the Gazette, has an exclusive interview with Niall Powell.

Niall Powell, 21, is an aspiring young golfer who is developing his professional skills at Ross-on-Wye Golf Club. But recently Niall, who is looking to “100% pursue a career in golf,” has spent two years in Iowa, U.S.A.

Niall first became interested in golf because of his Dad, who took him to a local par 3 course when he was just 11 years old. Although his successes are regular, he stays motivated by his love of the game and his love of competition. In the US this came to fruition, after winning nine out of 21 tournaments entered.

He began his studies in 2016, spending two years at Kirkwood College, Iowa, where he not only played golf but completed a degree in ‘Associate of Arts’, maintaining an academic side to his sporting achievement.

“The people there were extremely welcoming,” Niall said. “All of my nine teammate’s parents would offer to do all my laundry, my shopping, anything you could think of.”

Although Niall has completed the first stage of his dream, it isn’t over by any stretch. He plans to begin college in New Mexico after he flies back in August. There, alongside working on his golfing skills, such as his consistency and different techniques, he will study business management.

When asked about potentially living in America, Niall smiled and said: “I can definitely see myself living in America playing on the PGA Tour, for sure, but if I need to wait there’s no problem.”

“My ultimate goal is to win the British Open, but the foreseeable goal is 100% to turn professional.”

But Niall told me that wherever he finds himself on his travels, he will always have Ross in his heart - although the weather in America is one thing he wouldn’t swap.

“America is full of opportunity, where I’ve met some friends for life and some incredible human beings. I cannot wait to return, but I would say there’s no place like home.”

He added: “I like the idea of returning each Christmas and maybe in the summer, but I definitely could see myself living in the States for the rest of my life”.

Good luck Niall from all of us at the Gazette.

Chris Stonadge, Work Experience