Golf clubs across Cheshire and England are always looking to recruit more ladies and girls into golf.
Sharon Tiernan, who had never held a golf club in her life before, decided in the summer of 2023 to give it a go after seeing an advert from Chorlton Golf Club re ‘Ladies Get Into Golf’.
Since then she has become a total lover of the game and of Chorlton Golf Club and has become deeply involved in setting up sessions at Chorlton to support new members get Ladies Into Golf and extend the social opportunities already available.
Sharon said: “I was hooked into golf from the very first session I attended led by the pro, Dave Mackinnon. Dave is a fantastic teacher, and we had a very warm welcome from the current lady members.
“It was also fortunate that our Get into Golfers were a group of fun, diverse women who gelled very quickly. Along with Dave, Geraldine (Gerry) Gee, former Club Captain and experienced player, attended each session and gave much needed support and encouragement.
“Our Get into Golfers were soon interested in getting to grips with the different competition formats with a view to participating on a more competitive level. This was the start of the Monthly
Thursday Fun Comp which is played over 7 holes. Many of our players have gone on to enter (and win) club competitions and have also found playing partners for competitions through the group.
“The group is mixed, men and women, ages ranging from 20-90 and we’ve also had some of our junior members joining us. We play for fun and most importantly we raise money for our Captain’s charity ‘Kidneys for Life’. It really helps to build confidence in new members and players – and it’s inclusive!
“I have always loved organising and as a new member I enjoyed planning opportunities for the ladies to meet up socially for nights out and organising mini golf breaks at Formby Hall and Shrigley Hall. Over 18 ladies attended our first one – all ages, varying handicaps but one thing in common – we love golf!
“Each year the numbers of ladies joining the Get into Golf sessions has increased and it would be great to get more girls into golf and young people in general by visiting schools and offering taster sessions.
“The area I am most passionate about is providing opportunities for disabled and neuro-divergent children and young people, which is currently being offered through an initiative from Access Sport.
“Finally I’m so glad that golf came into my life when it did. Apart from the physical and mental health benefits it provides for me, the most important thing is the community – And this one at Chorlton is pretty special with over 30 new players involved.”
Image (top) Sharon (right), Gerry Gee and Dave McKinnon
Copy and images: Geoff Garnett
