Tribute to Past RLCGA and West Vets Captain - June Lockhart -- The very last Post !

June Lockhart (and Molly)
16th June 1949 - 1st May 2022

RLCGA Past Captain and West Vets Past Captain -- June Lockhart (nee Smollett) who was well known to so many in the West of Scotland golfing circles and beyond.-- died on Sunday 1st May and the very large funeral took place yesterday 18th May 2022 with many of her friends including Liz Munro (President of Scottish Golf).  Thanks go to one of June's close friends -  Liz Mavern (Ladies' Captain at Ralston) who passed me on some of the earlier information.

If you were unable to attend you can listen to the Live Stream Video of the Service by CLICKING HERE

In addition  - here is my golfing tribute to June as a very good friend and Past Webmaster of RLCGA  and West Vets with photos and Video links at the end. 

TRIBUTE - GOLF, HOCKEY SINGING AND AFTER DINNER SPEAKER 

June was born on the 16th June 1949 in Aberdeen, the only child of Constance and Robert Smollett, she was also brought up with her Gran and Uncle Billy.  June’s Mum taught her to work hard and ensured she took up a musical instrument. Her Dad would have preferred a boy so she was dragged along to football matches, hence her devotion to the “Dons” and her love of most sports. 

She loved school and went to Aberdeen Academy, playing in about every girls’ team and becoming Head Girl in 1967. It was there that she formed a strong friendship with Jennifer Thompson which lasted 57 years. Her friendship with PE Teachers Morag Clapperton and Sheona Duncan have almost lasted as long. She went on to Graduate MA Hons in Geography from Aberdeen University. 

Whilst at Uni June played Hockey for Scottish and British Universities several times, captaining both. She played for North District and captained there as well. She also played in the first ever under 23 Scottish team which beat the England team 2-1 at Hove (scoring one of the goals). Although she also captained Scottish Reserves, she ‘only’ played for the full team on 4 occasions…. Probably as her good friend Anne Wilson said “she could probably run faster backwards!”. In later years June was a Team Selector for West District and Scotland. 

Photo - Courtesy of Helen Faulds

When she moved to Glasgow she then joined Western Ladies and then Hillhead Hockey Club and played with eg - Helen Faulds, Pat Syme, Dorothy Gilmour, Moyra Withycombe, Lynn Mitchell, Lynn Forsyth and Sheila Moodie 

June started teaching at Camphill High (later to become Gleniffer High) in Paisley in 1972 until she retired from full time teaching partially after illness in 2002 

The Lockharts - Sheona, Gordon, Iain and June

In 1975 June met Iain Lockhart and they were married in 1977 at Aberdeen University They had 2 children Gordon and Sheona  and lived in the West end of Glasgow. Tragedy struck in 2011 when Sheona who had been fighting an illness for many years died at the age of 24. 

Her attentions changed from playing hockey to playing Golf where she became member of Clydebank and District where she became Ladies Captain  and then moved onto Gleddoch Golf Club where she became Club Champion in 2012 and also Lady Captain twice.

After Sheona’s death she then joined Douglas Park Golf Club and made many new friendships. She was a fantastic West of Scotland Greenlees Trophy Team member and gained valuable points for Douglas Park winning many of her matches on the 18th green. She also won numerous medals and was Runner Up in the Ladies’ Senior Championship in 2020.

Belle Robertson, Pamela Feggans,  JuneLockhart and Anne Wilson

In 2009 she played in a Pro Am at Archerfield and - The longest drive was an accumulative prize won by Belle Robertson, Anne Wilson and June who were accompanied by team professional Pamela Feggans who contributed a massive 312 yards with her drive !

She joined Renfrewshire Ladies’ County Golf Association in 2006 and was soon a winner of the Winter Foursomes in 2007 with Gleddoch member Roisin Black She won medals and tri ams on many occasions and was twice a winner of the County Autumn Greensomes with her good pal Shirley Back. She became Caddy Mistress in 2013 for the Inter County matches. 

In her 50’s June became a member of the West Vets an association of the Scottish Veterans Ladies’ Golf Association  - In 2016 after having to go through a “ Big Op” she became the West Vets Captain and had a very successful 2 years of captaincy. 

RLCGA 2018 County Team Runners Up

In 2017 in her 2nd year of West Vets Captaincy she also became Renfrewshire Ladies’ County Captain and took the team through to the Scottish County Team finals played over Kilmacolm in 2018. Renfrewshire just missed out being Champions to Aberdeenshire by an agonising half a point on count back. Despite the disappointment, the team took defeat with very good grace and indeed showed their appreciation of an Aberdeenshire team which hadn't won the title for 34 years.  June maintained a great friendship since then with Ann Smart the then winning Aberdeenshire Captain and at the 110th  RLCGA anniversary dinner in 2019 June said in her speech “ It is not the winning or the losing its the friends you meet along the way” 

In 2021 she played in the West of Scotland Championship at Cochrane Castle and altho’ a scratch competition - June was Runner up in the handicap prize beaten by the better inward half by Lanarkshire’s Jodie Graham from Hamilton who had a very successful day finishing her round with an eagle 2 at the 18th hole ! June was not disappointed in not winning the trophy and laughed when she worked out she was 57 years older than the youngster who just before June’s death had become the 2022 Lanarkshire County Champion 

June has her 3rd Hole in One at Troon

At the Renfrewshire’s  County Beetle Drive Fundraiser in February 2018 , Gleddoch pair Isabell Donnelly and Shirley Back outbid others for a round for 3 with RLCGA President Jennifer Mack at Troon Portland and June was invited to make up the 3rd player.

The ‘oldies’ played the ‘youngsters’ (no names need to be mentioned !) and a very competitive match ended all square, where Captain June made her first contribution at the par 3 4th with a hole-in-one ! 

As they were the only customers upstairs all day, it was not an expensive celebration – a typical Aberdonian. - This was June’s 3rd Hole in One. 

 

In no way was June mean — Her generosity was huge as was Iain’s and at any fundraising events for the County this was clearly seen by many donations of rounds of golf on eg Gleddoch,  Douglas Park and  Glasgow Gailes where bids could be made for four balls and this would help fund the players. 

 

Her after dinner speaking skills and raising of money was fantastic. 

 

She helped organise and then chaired numerous Jean Armour Nights at Gleddoch House Hotel and Hillhead Sports Clubs with a full house on each occasion (Click on Venue Links). 

They were thoroughly enjoyed by large audiences which included many of her golfing friends. She had notable speakers such as Baroness Helen Liddell, Baroness  Annabel Goldie MSP and Ruth Wishart with  Douglas Park’s Helen Faulds and song writer Moira Kerr from Cowglen . These evenings raised many thousands of pounds for Maggies and the Beatson Cancer Charity.

Her way with words was outstanding and she was invited to many golf clubs as being the main  speaker — In fact when she gave a toast to the laddies at Douglas Park’s Burns Night we all remember her performance that evening as one of the best.

June sang alto for many years in The Glasgow Singers Company founded and conducted by Graham Dickie, with performances at The SECC and The Conservatoire.

She was also  part of a group of backing singers on the recording of  Moira Kerr’s  song "Sula Bassana" when she led the altos.

 

Some of the DP Abba Group - -- Avril Berry, June Lockhart,
Helen Faulds Olive Mackay
Front : Chris Dingwall

She also sang in  the alto section of a newly formed choir at Douglas Park Golf Club. With June being a wonderful singer we were always pushing our way to stand next to her to keep in key. Then there was the downfall when singing some complicated Abba numbers at a social evening at Douglas Park in 4 part harmony — Too many glasses of wine and June was unable to hold us all to the tune - Boy did we laugh and Belle Robertson who was the guest speaker must have wondered what was going on !! — The Choir retired gracefully.  

Moira then asked June if she would come and bolster the altos in her choir at Cowglen G C, which of course, being June, she agreed to, but unfortunately, was unable to continue.

June and Bernie Mitchell (Husband of the the Late Lynn Mitchell)

There are so many more stories that can be told and can be summed up by many of the kind words that have been sent in - Bernie Mitchell husband of the late Lynn Mitchell said - "June just got on with it and committed herself to many causes, charitable, sporting and all associated administrative chores. The words, unique and legend, have become all too debased with frequent and inappropriate usage. In the case, however, of our dearest friend, June, they are truly relevant"

REPORTS, PHOTOGRAPHS AND VIDEOS WITH A GOOD HOCKEY STORY

CLICK HERE FOR MANY JUNE PHOTOS 

SOME HOCKEY PHOTOGRAPHS AND PAPER CUTTINGS (MORE PHOTOS TO BE ADDED SOON)

WEST VETS 50th AGM - Report and Photos

110th RLCGA ANNIVERSARY DINNER Report and Videos

JEAN ARMOUR PHOTOS 2013

JEAN ARMOUR PHOTOS 2016

JEAN ARMOUR 2013 VIDEO 

RLCGA 110TH ANNIVERSAY DINNER WITH MORAG CLAPPERTON AND ANN SMART (VERY FUNNY HOCKEY STORY) 

SOME TRIBUTES 

Morag Clapperton (Aberdeenshire Past Captain) 

What a sad day for us all but so much for us all to remember. She was one of the best pupils I ever taught and one of the best hockey players I ever played with, but most of all she was the best and most loyal friend anyone could ever ask for!

Simply the best!!

Gillian Kyle (Past Captain RLCGA) 

It's all just SO sad,  especially when June was such a lovely, good-living person. 

I would like to say what a wonderful, supportive VC June was to me. I really had to twist her arm to take on the role but I persisted as she was such a popular member of the "RLCGA family." She'd been unwell already that year but I promised to look after her & reassured her that we'd make a good team-which we did by winning the County Finals at Glenbervie. She kept meticulous notes as she always wanted to do the right thing for the County & the team. 

She will be sadly missed for her kindness, thoughtfulness & quick wit.

Sandra MacDougall (West Vets and RLCGA) 

It is so sad, Carol - I really can’t believe how quickly it has all happened. 

My regular joke with June was to remind her when Mo Neilson and I played against her in the 4s - she couldn’t understand how we had a combined handicap of 12.25 - until we told her it was out tee time - it always made her laugh.

Donna Jackson (Captain RLCGA)

 June was one of the nicest people I have met and became friends with through playing golf. I will miss the fun and the wicked sense of humour, and the odd swear word that would slip out when she was caddying for you in the county matches. RIP my friend

Ann Smart (Past Captain Aberdeenshire County)

I first met june at the County Finals in 2018 as a fellow captain. We became really good friends. An absolute gem of a lady who never once complained. Didn’t know you long enough June.

Moira Kerr (Past Captain Cowglen  - Singer and great friend)

POEM FOR A VERY SPECIAL FRIEND

Now and then someone comes into your life something just clicks, everything's right

Laughter, fun and compassion ensue you just know that this person's a good fit for you

And when you needed her, she was right there to give you advice, which she handled with care

And you would be there anytime that she asked to help with a noble or trivial task

She has a few nicknames, Joony Poony and Quine and Svetlanna is really a favourite of mine

On her piano, I'll hae a wee tune but I've a long way to go till I play it like June

Her face was fair, her words were kind and a truer friend you'll never find

With the skirl of the pipes

And the swirl of her kilt

She went on her way 

With her hat at a tilt !

So many more tributes on my facebook page and the RLCGA facebook page

" RIP My dear brave, kind and generous friend - you will always be in my thoughts"

GREENLEES RESULTS 2022

 For all of the 2022 Greenlees Trophy Results Click Here   2022 RESULTS

• For Results in the future -Email to the new West of Scotland Greenlees Secretary - Sarah Bottomley

RLCGA LAUNCHES A NEW WEBSITE AND CAROLFELLGOLF BLOG COMES TO AN END

Dear CarolFellGolf Readers, 

 

I am delighted to announce that Renfrewshire Ladies' County Golf Association Website (RLCGA) which I launched 19 years ago in 2003 and has had various versions since that time has a NEW WEBSITE.

Fiona Armour (Whitecraigs and RLCGA Past Results Secretary)  has just launched it using the Scottish Golf Venue Management System (VMS) which is now being used for its membership and for running the County Competitions. Fiona has done a great job  and the website the address stays the same --- https://www.rlcga.co.uk.         READ MORE

She has also designed and kept many of the Past Memories with image links and I thank her -- they are not lost in the void yet !! ---Go to CLUB LINK  --  HISTORY AND ARCHIVES

 

I  had also  been reporting on womens, girls and student golf since April 2006 on this blog. -- plus seniors golf on the WestVets blog until 2021,  Ranfurly Castle Ladies Blog 2007 - 2019  -- and  also an editor for KirkwoodGolf from 2016 -2018. 

The days of website reporting such as this blog are numbered. - Nowadays there are social media apps on phones and tablets (SG APP, TWITTER, FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM) and many people are kept up to date with golf news on a daily basis. Also this can be shared and posted instantly with their friends without the need for a dedicated blog to provide the service. 

I would like to thank Colin Farquharson for his great input before his retirement and for sharing many Ladies Golf News articles written by himself - and also to Gillian Kirkwood for her help in getting me started all those years ago.  Both of them made fantastic contributions both in content and support. Now without that support from them and having to find feeds myself for the blog -- it is time for me to take a big step back.

Counties Centenary Match 2009

This West of Scotland blog and beyond included many posts from various Scottish Counties but mainly Ayrshire, D&A, Lanarkshire and Renfrewshire and many memories can be found in the search link -- 

 West of Scotland Greenlees Trophies

 I am delighted to announce that Sara Bottomley is the new West of Scotland Greenlees Secretary. 

Currently Sara and I  are looking to set up a dedicated Greenlees Blog for all the results to sit on for the future. Meantime the GREENLEES FIXTURES AND RESULTS LINK are still on this blog.

During that time I have made very many friends and have always been encouraged by the knowledgeable readership. Thank you for your support over the years. 

I do hope everyone continues to ENJOY THEIR GOLF as it is most certainly a great game and even when you have a bad day you can laugh and enjoy the friendship we have as you can see from a recent get together at my Home Club Douglas Park and the above photo for 2009 !!  

Finally many thanks go to RLCGA for their very kind words on their new Website --- Click Here

ENTER THE 2022 WEST OF SCOTLAND CHAMPIONSHIP IS AT GLASGOW GAILES

Ayrshire LCGA are hosting the West of Scotland Closed Championship at Glasgow Gailes GC on Sunday 8th May 2022 from 10.30AM.

Handicap Limit: No greater than a handicap index of 20.4.

Entry Fee: £10, payable by cheque or BACS transfer ( information will be sent to entrants).

Venue Information: Glasgow Golf Club, Gailes Road, Irvine, KA11 5AE Tel. 0294 311 561.

For Conditions of the competition and paper entry form click on the link below

Paper entry form - CLICK HERE - please note it should say 2022 instead of 2021 at close of entry

For the Online Entry Form go to the following link  -- CLICK HERE

Any problems contact West of Scotland Secretary - Jean McIntyre (Lanarkshire)

Lorna McClymont completes hat-trick in R&A Student Tour Series

Lorna McClymont (Photo Courtesy of the R&A)

By Martin Dempster (The Scotsman Newspaper)

In-form University of Stirling student Lorna McClymont claimed a third straight R&A Student Tour Series victory after winning a play-off in the Spanish leg.

The 21-year-old, who is a member of Milngavie, started the final round at Infinitum Golf in Tarragona two shots behind Welsh woman Darcey Harry.

But, after signing for a closing one-over 72, McClymont joined 18-year-old Harry at the top of the leaderboard on five-over 218.

McClymont, a sports studies student, forced the play-off with a closing birdie-4 then repeated the feat at the first extra hole.

“I knew I had to go for it at the last and was pleased to see the ball land on the green,” said McClymont, who had already won events in Portugal and Ireland.

“In the play-off, I was even closer to the green and hit a 4-iron, so that hole was crucial for me today.

“It’s a bit special to think I’ve won the last three (Tour Series events). It gives me a lot of confidence for the rest of the season.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL REPORT

Join the Scottish Veteran Ladies’ Golf Association West Division

Do you enjoy playing competitive golf, meeting new friends, born in or before 1972 and have a WHI of 28 or less?

Why not join the West Vets?

During the year we organise three stroke play competitions with scratch and handicap prizes being awarded. The Championship (scratch match play) and a handicap match play competition are played in May each year. We also play three team matches against other Divisions with teams being selected from various handicap categories.

Further information including the 2022 Fixtures can be found at:

https://westvets.blogspot.com/

If you would like to become a member download an application form here. Completed form to be returned by email to the Secretary, Janette McCartney at sec.svlgaw1@gmail.com

CLICK HERE TO GET THE POSTER AND PUT UP IN YOUR CLUBHOUSE

    

Troon Rookie Hazel MacGarvie set for DIY approach on the Ladies European Tour

Click here to read in the Glasgow Herald by Nick Rodger 15th January 2022

Those of you who keep an eye on the amateur golf scene may recall the name Pia Babnik. She was the Slovenian 15-year-old who romped to victory in the 2019 Helen Holm Scottish Women’s Open at Royal Troon and left the rest of the field so far behind, they may as well have been playing in the 2018 edition of the championship.

Babnik subsequently turned pro and, at just 17, won on the Ladies European Tour last season as she enjoyed the kind of explosive rise you’d get from the launch pad at Cape Canaveral.

For Troon rookie Hazel MacGarvie, the exploits of Babnik, and all those other youthful talents who have made big impressions on the women’s circuit, have been particularly eye-opening.

MacGarvie is the latest Scot to join the Ladies European Tour, having earned her card at December’s qualifying school. Far from being intimidated by the daunting standards set by the likes of Babnik, however, the 22-year old is inspired.

“There are so many young girls coming through and winning and it shows what is possible,” said MacGarvie. “It’s not players who have been on tour for 10 years. It’s girls coming straight from the amateur game, going out there and really making a name for themselves. It’s great to see.”

MacGarvie, who burnished her own impressive amateur career by joining decorated names such as 

Catriona Matthew and Annika Sorenstam on the St Rule Trophy, decided to make the pro plunge a few weeks before the q-school process got underway.

Some may have viewed that as a bit of a gamble. She could, after all, have entered q-school as an amateur to see how she fared but MacGarvie was eager to start a new chapter.

“I’d played amateur golf for a long time and I wanted a fresh challenge, whether that was pro golf or some other job” said MacGarvie, who was given a taste of the professional life with a couple of outings on

Paul Lawrie’s Tartan Pro Tour.

“I’d played some of Paul’s events and thought, ‘you know what, I may as well do it and try to give myself a chance to earn some money’. Getting my card at q-school justifies the decision.”

Negotiating nine rounds of the qualifying school rigmarole is not for the faint-hearted but, amid an anguish-laden atmosphere that just about leaves the debris of nibbled fingernails scattered on the greens, MacGarvie stood firm. Well, apart from a late shoogle.

“I double-bogeyed my final hole and walked off thinking ‘I’ve just bottled this coming down the 18th’,” she said of a slip that, mercifully, didn’t prove costly in the final analysis. “I had no idea at the time I could make a double bogey and still be safe.”

With that prized card tucked safely in her pocket, MacGarvie is now facing up to the reality of being a tour player. “I don’t have a management company or any sponsors just now so it’s a bit of a do-it-myself approach at the moment,” she said. “It’s quite eye-opening. Going from the amateur game, where you are well supported, suddenly you are on your own. The early season events on the tour are in Asia and Africa and I think they may be difficult for me financially. I’m going to wait until the European swing and kick on from there.”

A graduate of Stirling University, MacGarvie’s golfing education began as an eager four-year-old. As a teenager, meanwhile, she got the opportunity to play alongside Ryder Cup player Thomas Pieters over her home course of Royal Troon prior to that year’s Open. There was a slight hitch.

“It was on the same day as my school maths exam so it was perhaps not my best decision to play golf,” said the former Vagliano Trophy player with a reflective chuckle.

“But we played early in the morning. And I passed my exam by the skin of my teeth.”

Having made the grade in the stern q-school examination, MacGarvie is now relishing the prospect of a 2022 campaign full of new opportunities and experiences on the tour.

“It’s a combination of nerves and anticipation,” she said. “I don’t feel any different to when I was an amateur golfer at the moment but I’m sure it will kick in when I get to my first event and think, ‘wait a minute, this is my job now’.”

LOUISE DUNCAN AND HANNAH DARLING ARE INVITED TO AUGUSTA

Louise Duncan 

Hannah Darling's official invitation for the Augusta National Women's Amateur in late March/early April, when she will be flying the Saltire with Louise Duncan (West Kilbride)

The 18-year-old Broomieknowe player secured her spot in the event, which concludes at Augusta National the Saturday before The Masters, by winning the R&A Girls’ Amateur Championship last year.

Along with West Kilbride’s Louise Duncan on the back of her success in the R&A Women’s Amateur Championship, the pair will become the first Scots to compete in the prestigious tournament.

To read the full article in the Scotsman by Martin Dempster -- CLICK HERE

Death of Past SLGA Chairman Margaret Rodgers

Margaret on her retirement in 2007 from being SLGA Chairman
Photo courtesy of Carol Fell

From the Midlothian County Ladies Golf Association Website 

 It is with great sadness I tell you of the death of Margaret Rodgers.

Margaret was an Honorary Member, Captain (1997-98) and President (2008-10) of Midlothian County Ladies Golf Association and one of the County’s greatest supporters.  Many of you will know she was also the creator of Michaela, the much loved mascot of the County Squad.

Captain, and a member for most of her life, of Turnhouse, Margaret was a talented player, selector and administrator, and has made a huge contribution to Scottish golf over the years.

I am sure many of you will have a connection, and fond memories, of Margaret. She will be deeply missed.

The funeral is private.

She had also held various SLGA posts in the past, including chairman from 2005-07, and was made an honorary member of the MCLGA in recognition of her work.

In 2006 she led the Scottish Ladies’ Golfing Association and Scottish Golf Union  joint working group to look after the best interests of the amateur game in Scotland. CLICK HERE

A Forever Tribute has been set up by her daughter Jane  dedicated to her memory  CLICK HERE

Margaret - County Finals 2009

Margaret with County Team in 2009

SLGA Counties Centenary 2009

Midlothian Mascot Michaela created by Margaret

Scottish Seniors Championship Strokeplay 2006
Machrihanish

2006 Scottish Senior Matchplay Finalist Fiona De Vries and Helen Faulds
with Margaret Rodgers and Nancy Chisholm

All photos - Courtesy of Carol Fell

Tributes to former SLGA chair and Midlothian stalwart Rodgers

By MARTIN DEMP­STER

The Scotsman

14 Jan 2022

Golf is mourning the death of Margaret Rodgers, a Midlothian stalwart who was at the centre of the unification of the men’s and women’s games in Scotland.

Margaret Rodgers, a well known face in Scottish golf, having been at the heart of an initiative that led to a unified body for the amateur game in the country, has died.

Including a spell as Lady Captain, Rodgers, who hailed from Ireland but lived in Scotland for most of her life, was a member of Turnhouse for 46 years, while she was also a member of Gullane.

A low-handicapper in her day, she won the Turnhouse Ladies’ Championship in1986 and1987 and has her name on six of the nine main ladies’ trophies at the Capital club.

“My first memory of her was playing as her partner in a mixed foursomes soon after I joined Turnhouse in the late 1970s,” said Allan Shaw, a former Lothians Golf Association president.

“My trepidation in playing with a lower handicap lady golfer resulted in me leaving us up against the front face of the bunker at the third green. Undaunted, she demolished the face of the bunker and left me with a two-foot putt and we sailed on after that to finish in the top three.”

Rodgers was  heavily involved in the Midlothian County Ladies Golf Association, becoming an honorary member after stints as captain (1997-98) and president (2008-10).

“She was one of the county’s greatest supporters,” said captain Isla Mccrone in a post on the MCLGA website. “She was also the creator of Michaela, the much-loved mascot of the county squad.”

In 2006, during a spell as chair of the Scottish Ladies Golfing Association, Rodgers was part of a joint-working group with the Scottish Golf Union setup to look after the “best interests of the amateur game in Scotland”.

Alongside SGU chair Alistair Low, she was involved in discussing how the then ruling bodies of Scottish amateur golf could work together for the “betterment of the game, irrespective of gender”.

Though encountering some bumps along the way, Scottish Golf, a unified body, was formed on 1 October, 2015.

“I suppose it was a big step,” said low of that working group. “The ladies were very conscientious and helpful and Margaret was extremely encouraging.”

A post on the Scottish Golf website said of Rodgers: “We are grateful for her vast contributions to Scottish golf over the years.”

Former Scottish Golf president June Mcewan first got to know Rodgers when she was chair of SLGA. she said: “Margaret was always very enthusiastic in promoting women’s golf and in working more closely with the SGU and contributed greatly to the game on many levels.

“She was a good listener, and, on a personal level, encouraged me to have the confidence to further my volunteering within the game. Margaret was a gentle lady with a lovely sense of humour and will be sadly missed.”

Claire Hargan with Midlothian Mascot 
Photo courtesy of Carol Fell

Six-time Midlothian champion Claire Hargan, who is now the Assistant Director - Rules at the R&A, also paid a warm tribute to Rodgers. “Margaret truly was a great ambassador for Scottish women’s golf and for women’s county golf,” said Hargan. “In the 10 or so years I  was involved with Midlothian Ladies County she was always there supporting the team. She was great fun to be around but, behind the scenes, she clearly put in a power of work for the women’s game in Scotland.”

A BIG THANKYOU FROM LESLEY THE DAUGHTER OF THE LATE HEATHER ANDERSON (CALDWELL)

Carol -- It was lovely to finally meet you at the service. 

I can't remember a time when I haven't heard Mum mention you and it was so good to put a face to the name. 

I really appreciate you taking time to come to the service and would like to use this  blog to pass on my thanks to all those involved in the Renfrewshire Ladies County Golf Association, West Vets and beyond who attended the service or sent cards, messages and flowers - these have genuinely meant the world to me and its been a real comfort to know so many other people thought mum was pretty special. 

I would also like to mention those who stood down at Caldwell Golf Club for the cortege passing. Coming over the bridge and along the road to see all the ladies gathered took my breath away. It was both  unexpected and wonderful.  - Mum would have LOVED that so much. 

 

I have spent the day trying to find the words to express what an amazing scene that was and there really isn't any to do it justice -- so if its ok I'll just say THANK YOU 

A bit like the Pharaoh's, Mum was sent off with the essentials for the after life - best golf jumper, shoes, glove, scorecard, pencil, marker tee and skip ! 

Those that knew her knew she was terrible for always looking to change her clubs so I'm expecting she'll get a new celestial set. I hope you and everyone have a lovely Christmas and wish you all the best for the coming year. 

The photo I took of the flag at half mast down at Caldwell GC on the way home from the service. I thought it summed the day up really well.

Thanks again - Lesley (Anderson)

HAZEL MACGARVIE SECURES HER LET CARD FOR 2022

Many congratulations go to Hazel MacGarvie (Royal Troon) who has secured her LET card at her first attempt at Q School at La Manga after  turning Professional only 2 months earlier.

The other Scot to gain her card was Laura Beveridge (nee Murray)

Hannah McCook, Clara Young,  Jane Turner, Heather MacRae, Rahael Taylor, and Tara Mactaggart were unsuccessful

 FULL RESULTS

Read the full report from Martin Dempster (The Scotsman)

Jane Turner tames La Manga wind in solid start to LET Q-School final

Jane Turner took up where she’d left off in the pre-qualifier in making a solid start in the LET Q-School final but some of her fellow Scottish card hopefuls were quickly blown off course at windy La Manga. She had a one under par 70 

 

“It was pretty windy out there today,” said Turner, a two-time British Universities’ champion. “We got quite lucky because it was forecast to rain and we got that one heavy shower which only lasted a couple of minutes

Hazel MacGarvie was next best among the Scots with a two-over 73, followed by Clara Young, Rahael Taylor and Hannah McCook as they all signed for 74s.

Heather MacRae had to settle for a 77, leaving her with work to do along with Tara Mactaggart (80) and Laura Murray (82).

For full scoreboard —- CLICK HERE

Jane Turner leads six Scots into LET Q-School final at La Manga

By Martin Dempster  The Scotsman -- CLICK HERE FOR FULL REPORT

Jane Turner took pride of place by finishing in the top 10 in the pre-qualifier at La Manga yesterday as six Scots progressed to the LET Q-School final at the same venue.

 

It was mission accomplished for Turner in her first competitive outing since June due to a shoulder injury as she ended up among just nine players to finish in red figures after 72 holes at the Murcia venue.

The two-time British Universities’ champion was joined in clearing the first hurdle in the annual LET card battle by Hazel MacGarvie, Hannah McCook, Clara Young, Tara Mactaggart and Rachael Taylor.

“Today was just very consistent,” said Turner of following her third-round 66 on Saturday on the North Course with a closing bogey-free two-under 71 on the South Course to finish eighth among 75 qualifiers on three-under.

McCook (71) and MacGarvie (74) finished alongside each other, just missing out on the top 20 on four-over, one ahead of Young (74).

Facing the most pressure among the Scots, Mactaggart signed off with a gutsy 72 to end up in a tie for 60th on 10-over in a group that also included Taylor (77).

FULL SCOREBOARD

Funeral Arrangements for Heather Anderson - Amendment to previous details

There has been a change of plan for Heather Anderson's Funeral due to Covid. The hearse will leave from Heather's home in Uplawmoor at 9.50am on Friday 26th November. 

 

It will travel down the village main street towards Cadwell GC -- (some of you may wish to pay your respects by standing at the roadside) The cortege will go slowly past the Golf Club going towards Irvine. 

There will be a service at 10.30am at Holmbridge Crematorium, Irvine ( KA11 4EF) to which all are invited. 

The service will also be streamed and the code will be listed on the Crematorium website. For clarification, there will not be a service at Caldwell Parish Church. 

 

After the service at the crematorium, Lesley has invited all to meet up at the Uplawmoor Hotel from 11.45am onwards. -- CLICK HERE FOR THE OBITUARY 

RENFREWSHIRE'S HEATHER ANDERSON FROM CALDWELL GOLF CLUB AND TROON LADIES HAS DIED

Heather at the Scottish Seniors Championship in 2004

It is with much sadness that I have to announce the death of Heather Anderson (Caldwell GC and Troon Ladies)  on the 8th November 2021 a month short of her 91st birthday. 

Heather was Scottish Champion in 1969 and in the Vagliano Team in that year. She was also the Renfrewshire County Champion 9 times, and a Scottish Ladies Internationalist in 1964, 1965, 1968, 1969, 1970 and 1971.

Her life story featured in 2009 the RLCGA County Centenary Book  -- courtesy of Colin Farquharson (pages 36 - 38) - or CLICK HERE TO READ  and at the end  of this obituary -- at the RLCGA Centenary Dinner in 2009 -- a toast by Heather to the County. - YOU TUBE VIDEO

Her good friend -- Renfrewshire Counties' Liz Hale from Caldwell Golf Club wrote

Heather took up golf at the age of 17. Her passion, up until this point had been horse riding however, after a serious horse  riding accident at the Royal Highland Show, her parents managed to persuade her to sell her horses. She was then left with a choice on whether to take up badminton or golf. Golf won.

Heather joined Caldwell Golf Club, aged 17 and in the same year, competed and won the Paisley Grammar School Championship. By 1948, Heather had a handicap and started playing in the Medals at Caldwell GC which were played on Saturday afternoons after the gents. It was during this time that Heather met Ian, her future husband.

Heather partnered a number of accomplished golfers during her career including Findlay Black (who holds the record scorecard at Caldwell GC) - playing in the final of the Daily Mail Medal Foursomes at Gleneagles and Margaret Sharp at Troon Portland and at Caldwell GC with many successes. Heather also performed with style, most notably at the Highland Open Championship, Pitlochrie, where she donned trousers, shirt, cap and glove – all in the Anderson tartan. A competitor was overheard saying; ‘My God, it’s a bag of pipes she should be playing!’.

By 1958, Heather was a scratch golfer and was chosen to play for the Renfrewshire Team which she continued to do over a span of 32 years.

In 1964, Heather’s international career took off.

Heather played for Scotland in the Home Internationals in Sweden and France. She led the team in the European Championship and then two months later, Scotland won the Home International at Western Gailes. This was when Heather defeated the National Champion of England, of Ireland and of Wales, finishing the series with 100% success and earning the honour of being asked to play for Great Britain and Ireland.

Heather’s most memorable win, of course, was at West Kilbride when she won the

Scottish Ladies’ Championship in 1969. There was a gold Medal but no prize money at that time and her daughter Lesley was seen to be building sand castles in the bunker to celebrate her victory !!

However, history was made when Heather was presented with a replica owned by the late Jean McCulloch of West Kilbride. Jean had, in her earlier years, won the Scottish title on three occasions between 1913 and 1928 and it was this last replica that Heather regraded as one of her most treasured possessions. 

In 1980, Heather turned professional, only the second lady professional in Scotland, at that time and then reinstated in 1985 to the amateur ranks. 

In the same year, Heather received an Honourable Membership at Caldwell GC. 

Heather was Ladies Caldwell GC Champion (19 times) as well as winning many other trophies. She was  our current Ladies President. --  She was truly an inspiration to us all! 

Since her 80th birthday in 2010 Heather still managed to play golf up until about 2016 and featured throughout the last decade with various achievements -- 

In 2013 She entered a competition through 'How Did I do' . It was to tell a story about a memory of the 'Open'.

Heather's memory told about the time when her young daughter, Lesley, had approached Gary Player and asked for his autograph for her Mum. He was delighted to give this. At which point Lesley asked 'Would you like me to get my Mum's autograph now to give to you ?

This story made Heather one of the prize winners --  and to top it all she was informed she could bring a friend - and her friend invited was Liz Hale 

A round of golf at Muirfield (with Caddy) on Thursday 20th June, just before the closing of the course to perpare for the Open.

2 nights stay at the McDonald Marine Hotel in North Berwick . (Taxi to the Course included)

Golf Clinic With Darren Clark followed by Buffet Lunch.

Dinner on Thursday Evening with 'Q and A session' with Darren Clark.

They both had a marvellous day  --  the Marine was comfortable, friendly and good food. The clinic with Darren Clark was really informative and interesting - driving and short game- always something relevant you remember to take away with you.

This was followed by a wonderful buffet lunch in the Clubhouse before going out for our round of golf.

We were put into ten teams of four. As Heather and Liz were the only two ladies it was funny to see the expressions on the faces of the two Irish gentlemen who had been landed with us. They were great to play with.

The weather was good, sunshine and they each had a caddy. Heather played well which made the game enjoyable for her and Darren Clark played 2 holes with their team.

It was a great experience to play the course and made watching The Open itself more interesting.

After the game they returned to the Hotel where there was a prizegiving dinner with Darren Clark hosting a question and answer session. The men were given ties with the Claret Jug embroidered on it while Heather and Liz were each given a lovely silver brooch of the Claret Jug --  Nice keepsake.

A really enjoyable experience - a well deserved experience for Heather to add to all her very many golfing achievements. She was quite sad to come away from Muirfield.

In 2014 she was  first Commonwealth  Games baton bearer in her home town of Uplawmoor in East Renfrewshire. The BBC reported that -- Heather has long been an active member of the community and has been involved with the local council, the church board and the church choir. She is also an accomplished golfer, and won the Scottish Ladies Championship in 1969

It was an early start for Heather as she had to be there  for 6.15am!! The carrying of the torch was at 7.30am and the rain held off. All TV cameras and eyes on Heather in her blue and white uniform as she carried the torch about 400 yards before handing it on. Quite an honour and a day to remember for Heather. Half the village turned out  to see her and we were all given a lovely breakfast in the local hall afterwards. Heather had her hair done the day before and the first thing she asked her daughter on the  the morning of the event was -'Is my hair alright?'  She did well!!

Heather played in the West Vets Summer Meeting in 2016 over her Home course Caldwell with your webmaster Carol Fell who was so impressed with her still wonderful swing -- SO EASY!!

 

Heather, Wendy and Aileen

 
Later that year she was then awarded Honorary Membership of the West Vets at the 2016 AGM alongside Aileen Wilson to join Wendy Cameron as the 3 Honorary Members. -- 

See West Vets Website for a few old photos

Liz Hale said today  "Heather fought bravely for the last year but died peacefully at home which is what she would have wanted. Her daughter Lesley looked after her very well ".

"Before her illness, Heather was always ready for a coffee and chat and enjoyed going down to Troon to catch up with her long term golf 'pals' there.

A long and successful career with a swing that was 'easy and consistent'.  Not many golfers go off golfing in Portugal in their mid eighties!

She was the oracle at Caldwell and a respected and much liked lady President of the Club - She will be missed at  Caldwell  and missed in her very much loved village of Uplawmoor."

Heather’s funeral  will be on Friday 26th November. 

CLICK HERE FOR AMENDED FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS 

There will be a video / streaming of the service . I think these are usually on the website for a few days. A code is required which I shall send to you as soon as I have it.

Lesley has asked for no flowers  but possible to make a donation to Hessilhead  - Wild Life Rescue at Beith    Liz Hale

TO READ A THANK YOU FROM HEATHERS DAUGHTER LESLEY -- CLICK HERE

Finally a happy memory from 2009 -- a toast to the County ! -- Much laughter and hilarity -- Rest in peace Heather