Suffolk’s Michael Rees has been honoured with the 2024 Gerald Micklem Award, recognizing his outstanding dedication to the game of golf across multiple roles.
Named after the former English Amateur champion and Walker Cup player, the Gerald Micklem Award is awarded annually by England Golf to individuals who have made remarkable contributions to amateur golf in England since its inception in 1990.
Rees’s influence in the golfing community is extensive, both at his local club and across the broader golfing landscape.
At Rookery Park in Lowestoft, he has served in various leadership roles, including Club Captain in 1989 and 1994, and President from 2001-2003.
Additionally, he has been a Trustee for over 20 years and is currently an Honourary Life Member, serving as Competitions & Handicap Chairman.
On the county level, Rees has been the President of the Suffolk Golf Union (2010/11) and First-Team Captain when Suffolk made it to the County Finals for the first time in 2012.
He has held significant positions in regional golf organizations, serving as President of the South East Group (2017-2019) and currently as Championship Chairman and Chief Referee.
His expertise has also been tapped at the national level, where he has officiated at prestigious tournaments such as The R&A, DP World Tour, and Ladies European championships, and has been involved in England Golf’s Competitions Working Group.
Upon receiving his award at the England Golf AGM on Wednesday, April 24, Rees expressed his surprise, “I can’t believe it. I thought I was getting asked to provide a rules evening!”
He also shared his appreciation for the support he received from his family and colleagues, noting, “My wife Sandra has to put up with me being away all the time…She knows the rules of golf by default!”
Rees also fondly recalled some of his memorable golfing moments, such as hitting a two on a par 5 and captaining Suffolk at the Men’s County Finals for the first time.
Rees, now 76, intends to continue his current roles, stating, “While I’m fit enough, I hope I can continue to keep doing what I love.”
