FORMER European No.1 Ronan Rafferty and North Ayrshire's own Connie Jaffrey, the Scottish Ladies champion were in Irvine for a special conference last Tuesday

The Unlocking Potential: Driving for Success event - held at Gailes Hotel between the Aberdeen Asset Management Men’s and Ladies Scottish Open – was targeted at local sporting organisations to find ways they can encourage participation and develop young talent.

The Council has already set up the first-ever North Ayrshire Golf Forum and is looking to capitalise on this summer’s golfing extravaganza to build a legacy across a range of sports in the region.

And they pulled off a real coup when Rafferty – who won the European Tour Order of Merit in 1989 – accepted their invitation and shared some of his experiences and what it takes to make it to the top.

He even brought along his Ryder Cup replica trophy, having been a member of the European team in 1989.

The witty Irishman recalled how he and German Bernhard Langer were given the honour of starting the Ryder Cup that year. Ever-efficient Langer, known for his precision, was in line to go first. He seemed to have it all worked out exactly where he was going to hit the ball and had measured the wind speed and temperature gauge. However he suddenly turned round to Rafferty and said had been performing so well that year and he was surprisingly petrified, so why didn't he go first and handed him the ball. The Irishman, who had been hoping to play the follow-up shot in a good position, was dreading the thought that he might hit the opening tee shot out of bounds but he ended up firing it down the middle of the fairway to a bunker, which wasn't as bad as he feared.

Rafferty said the player he enjoyed teaming up with most in the Ryder Cup was Seve Ballesteros, while the one he admired most was Tom Watson, who had been hugely successful with eight major wins in eight years but showed so much humility. He said practice and preparation were vital to success in sport.

Also speaking was Council Chief Executive Elma Murray who talked about the opportunities being unlocked for sports clubs in North Ayrshire.

She was followed by Drew Wallace, Programme Leader in Sports Coaching and Development at the University of West of Scotland. Drew explained how positive thinking and the correct mindset approach is key to any potential sporting success.

Fresh from her victory in the Scottish Ladies Amateur Championship, Kilwinning woman Connie was also able to talk about her experiences of playing and studying in the US and how she is making strides to reach the professional ranks. Connie came through the Nurturing Excellence Programme for Sport and is a shining example of how the project can help young sports people achieve their ambitions.

Chris Dirkin also spoke at the event. He has previously worked with the England & Wales Cricket Board and helped get cricket into over 20,000 schools in England over a five-year period.

He is now involved with local kids golf club manufacturer Golphin and his interactive lessons – including Alphabet chipping – have proved hugely successful across North Ayrshire schools.

Dean Davies provided some on-course entertainment with his brilliant array of trick shots, with Jaffrey one of his volunteers for a demonstration.

Coming hot on the heels of the Scottish Open and just before the start of the Women’s Scottish Open at Dundonald Links, it was seen as an ideal opportunity to bring many sports and different groups together to help unlock potential in young people and improve opportunities for participation, progress and enjoyment of sport.

Indeed, those attending the event were not just representing golf – those involved in football, badminton, table tennis, karate and gymnastics were also there to gain a specialist insight.

Councillor Joe Cullinane, Leader of North Ayrshire Council, said: “This month is about more than just two world-class golfing events. It’s about trying to build a legacy here in North Ayrshire, alongside partners such KA Leisure and our Active Schools team.

“We have so much going for us in terms of facilities, courses and, above all else, passion for the sport. It’s just about putting everything together and this month gives us a fantastic opportunity to do that.

“The Unlocking the Potential event was a fantastic idea with some really inspiring speakers. Hopefully that will provide further inspiration and ideas for our local clubs and organisations to help even more young people develop a real passion for not only golf but a wide range of sports that we have to offer in North Ayrshire.”