Birmingham, England: The PGA of Great Britain & Ireland (GB&I) is celebrating a historic milestone in 2026, following 125 years of PGA Members supporting and shaping the game of golf worldwide.

Since 1901, PGA Members have been at the heart of golf – teaching, mentoring, managing and innovating to shape the experiences of millions of golfers.

To mark this notable anniversary, The PGA of GB&I has produced a short film showcasing its Members’ rich history and the values that have defined the Association for more than a century. The film launched on Friday across The PGA of GB&I’s digital channels, coinciding with the February issue of PGA Monthly, which features a commemorative cover and a look back at The PGA of GB&I’s journey from 1901 to today.

The Association was born from the vision of ‘The Great Triumvirate’ – JH Taylor, James Braid and Harry Vardon – who sought to raise the status of those earning their living from golf. A single letter in Golf Illustrated in April 1901 called for professionals to ‘band themselves into an association to promote the general welfare of the professional’.

That letter sparked the formation of the London and Counties Golf Professionals’ Association on September 9, 1901, which soon became The Professional Golfers’ Association of Great Britain and Ireland. From that pioneering moment, The PGA of GB&I established a model that would be replicated around the world.

“Ever since 1901, we have worked together to improve the personal and professional lives of our Members,” said Alan White, Chairman of The PGA of GB&I. “Today, we have 8,500 Members and Trainees working in over 80 countries across a wide range of roles – from club professionals and coaches to an increasing number of managers and directors of golf. I am very proud of The PGA and what it stands for.”

While the scale of golf has transformed since 1901, The PGA of GB&I’s founding principles remain unchanged. Today, the Association continues to lead the industry through world-class education and Member support.

The anniversary film features PGA Members including PGA of GB&I Captain Elect David Llewellyn, and reflects on their dedication, professionalism and passion for the game. It serves as a reminder that while golf continues to evolve, the role of the PGA Member remains as vital today as it was 125 years ago.  

*The PGA of Great Britain & Ireland is a member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.