Patrick Flavin

Born in Kerry, Ireland, I moved to the UK as child and settled in Exeter Devon. After completing my schooling at St Mary’s Marist school I attended Brixton School of Building in preparation for my first career in the construction industry. During my time with EBC Group I held the role of Director in several companies eventually leading to outright ownership of one of them by way of a management buyout.

Having always been a keen rugby player and golfer it felt natural for me to transfer my entrepreneurial skills to becoming involved in golf club management. I was fortunate to enjoy some early success with initial ventures and I was retained by St Mellion International to become their Director of Golf and Leisure. Once St Mellion was acquired by American Golf I was approached by Nigel Mansell to run his Woodbury Park Golf Club, a position I held for 5 years. In 2000 I travelled extensively advising clubs and owners as a consultant. I eventually bought Merrist Wood Golf Club in Surrey and built it up to the point that it became an attractive target for acquisition. I sold it 2005 and reverted to my role as consultant.

In 2008 the late Andrew Hall, PGA professional, asked me became a Director and Shareholder of Sand Martin’s GC working alongside him. I had great fun doing this until retirement in 2014.

Alongside Michael Taylor I set about researching and writing the amazing tale of how two Cornish farmers built one of the foremost golf clubs in England. One that has played host to countless Professional and Amateur tournaments and was designed by none other than the illustrious Jack Nicklaus.

Writing the book was a labour of love as I hold the Bond family in the highest regard.

Another book ( fiction) is in the offing.