St Andrews, Scotland: Dr Andy Owen has been appointed Research Manager at The R&A Sustainable Golf team, strengthening its research and innovation work to support the sustainability and resilience of golf courses around the world.

In his new role, Owen will help shape and manage The R&A’s global sustainable golf research strategy, identifying and overseeing research into the key challenges that could impact the long-term sustainability of golf courses.

As a global leader in the sustainable management of golf courses, The R&A’s Sustainable Golf team aims to ensure the game of golf is thriving for future generations. 

Owen’s appointment will help The R&A build a deeper evidence base around the future needs of golf course management, supporting the industry as it responds to environmental, resource and agronomic challenges.

A major focus will be on translating research into practical information and guidance, enabling golf courses to apply the latest evidence and make better, more sustainable long-term management decisions.

Owen will work alongside The R&A’s wider Sustainable Golf team, including Dr Brett Morris, to strengthen the research, evidence and practical guidance available to the industry.

He will also lead the continued evolution of Golf Course 2030 (GC2030) and support The R&A’s involvement in the International Turfgrass Research Initiative (ITRI).

Owen brings extensive experience across turfgrass research, education and the global sports turf industry, including 12 years as International Technical Manager at ICL, alongside previous roles at STRI, Myerscough College and Bangor University.

“This (Owen’s appointment) is another positive step forward for The R&A’s Sustainable Golf team, helping to deliver global agronomy research and best practice that supports federations, clubs, practitioners and industry partners,” said a statement from The R&A.