A YOUNG golfer who practiced at Broome Manor Golf Club has qualified for his first professional tournament.

Matthew Hibbs first visited the Swindon driving range with his dad as a two-year-old and instantly fell in love with the sport.

The 23-year-old played regularly from the age of four and was inspired by fellow club member David Howell, who went on to be ranked in the world’s top 10 and win two Ryder Cups.

Matthew took part in World Junior championships in the USA when he was five, six and eight-years-old. The Bradon Forest School pupil's progress through the stages of the sport has continued since then, going on to play in Elite Amateur competitions before turning professional in July 2021.

Just four months later, Matthew qualified to play on the PGA EuroPro Tour in 2022 and he hopes to play on the DP World Tour in the coming years.

Swindon-based business Imagine Cruising will provide financial support as he pursues his goal of becoming one of the next generation of high profile professional golfers on our screens. 

Matthew said: “It means so much to have the support of Imagine Cruising, not only because it allows me in practical terms to really focus on my game, but because it’s been so inspiring to have connected with the CEO and the rest of his team.

"I’ve been able to learn more about his own journey to creating Imagine Cruising, a business at the heart of our local community, and his encouragement to go for my goals has been really inspiring. I can’t wait for the season to start.”

CEO Robin Deller said: “The Swindon community is a huge part of our focus at Imagine Cruising, and that has always included supporting our local talent in pursuit of their dreams.

"Matthew is such a talented, dedicated and hard -working young man, and we are absolutely delighted to support him as he reaches for the next level in the world of golf. Myself and my team will be cheering him all the way.”

Matthew will begin his competitive season in April by playing events on the Clutch Pro Tour to prepare himself for his season on the PGA EuroPro Tour which starts in May 2022.

Follow his progress at www.europrotour.com