A COLWYN BAY golf star has secured a prestigious scholarship in the United States as he makes the next step in his sporting career.

Charley Simpson, a student at Rydal Penrhos, has earned a scholarship at the University of Idaho, and will join the college’s Vandals golf team in 2024.

Charley is part of the Wales Under-18 squad and has several victories in regional competition, and his hard work and determination have resulted in this next big move.

After a series of interviews with prospective golf coaches from colleges around the United States, the Year 13 pupil was formally offered a position with the Division I programme and will play at events across America, which will regularly pitch him against some of the best amateur golfers in the world.

The University of Idaho also holds its own Invitational event, which takes place each year at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort – regularly cited as the best golf resorts in the world.

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Charley will be joining a strong golf team made up of nine players, including a couple of UK-based college athletes.

He received support from Rydal Penrhos’ teaching staff and Pro Dream USA – which helps young golfers from across the world connect with the best universities in the United States, supporting them throughout the strenuous process to fulfil academic and sporting potential.

Charley’s mother Rachel said: “Rydal Penrhos has been a large part of Charley’s journey, contributing to the young man he has become.

“We are very grateful for all the support, opportunities, learning and encouragement he has had from the school. We are so proud of him.”

North Wales Pioneer: Charley in action.Charley in action. (Image: Newsquest)