HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY WISHES TO RENFREWSHIRE'S HEATHER ANDERSON

 

Heather Anderson is 90 today  ---- Friday  (18th December 2020 ) - A BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY

CLICK HERE TO SEE HER BIRTHDAY CARD  

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.

10 years ago we wished Heather a Happy 80th Birthday and at that time her life story featured in the RLCGA County Centenary Book  -- courtesy of Colin Farquharson (pages 36 - 38)

Now, her very good friend Renfrewshire Counties Liz Hale from Caldwell Golf Club has written a very nice tribute to her for her 90th birthday in 2020 which I am delighted to share  --

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.

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 now regards 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 is a Ladies Caldwell GC Champion (20 times) as well as winning many other trophies. She is our current Ladies President. Heather is truly an inspiration to us all!

Since her 80th 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 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  - West Vets now have 3 honorary Members - Wendy Cameron being the 3rd - she was awarded the title in 2010 

Thereafter, Heather has suffered poor health and been in and out of hospital -- She has however attended many events at Caldwell Golf Club and well looked after by her daughter Lesley.

Unfortunately she has had fall recently and has broken her hip and is back in hospital. She hopes to get home for Christmas.

We all wish Heather a Happy BIG Birthday and a speedy recovery -- and finally your webmaster Carol had wished she could have baked cake for you Heather !!

SCOTTISH GOLF EVENTS 2021

From the Scottish Golf Website

Scottish Golf is pleased to announce a full schedule of events for golfers of all ages and abilities will be returning in 2021.

Following a season-long hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, a full 2021 schedule will offer thousands of golfers the opportunity to play some of Scotland’s top golf courses and bid to become a National Champion. 

With over 120,000 downloads of the Scottish Golf App since the start of November, the upcoming season will also see several exciting changes to enhance the player and viewer experience. 

Full hole-by-hole live scoring will now be available at all Scottish Golf events for the first time as players input their scores and sign off scorecards directly on their mobile devices using the Scottish Golf App. 

The App, which is free to download here, has many exciting features which entrants will be able to take full advantage of in 2021. This includes simple event entry, live scoring and an on-course Caddie which will give you accurate course information for every one of our Host Venues. 

The Scottish Medal Finals will make its debut as a combined event in 2021 with affiliated clubs invited to enter three of their top-performing male and female players from both the 2019 and 2020 season’s monthly medals into one of six Regional Finals taking place during May and July.

On the day of the Regional Final, male and female players will play alongside each other with the top six net male and female qualifiers booking their place at the Home of Golf for the Grand Final which will be played over The Duke’s Course on Sunday 15 August.

The offering for club golfers continues with the hugely successful and free-to-enter R&A 9-Hole Challenge, with Milnathort once again playing host to the two-day Scottish National Final on Thursday 10 and Friday 11 June. The prize for the top four teams from the National Final is the money-can’t-buy experience of playing in the R&A 9-hole Challenge Final over Royal St. Georges on the eve of The 149th Open Championship where they will compete against fellow qualifiers from across the world for the overall title.

Completing the portfolio of National Championships for club golfers is the free-to-enter PING Scottish Mixed Championship which will this year be played over former Men’s and Women’s Scottish Open venue, Gullane No.1 on Friday 17 September. This event will see the Top 40 pairs from a National Leaderboard qualify for a great day out and some fantastic prizes courtesy of Championship sponsors PING.

Fraser Munro, Head of Events at Scottish Golf, said: “2020 has been a hugely difficult year for everyone but we are looking forward to getting back out and engaging with clubs and golfers in the new year. Entries recently opened for our newly combined Scottish Medal Finals and we have been hugely encouraged by the level of response it has received. 

“As always, none of this would be possible without the support of our various stakeholders including our many host venues for allowing us access to their wonderful courses and our generous event partners for providing some outstanding prizes throughout the season. 

“With more than 120,000 people having now downloaded the Scottish Golf App, our events and the information available will be more accessible than ever and we look forward to welcoming more golfers of all ages and abilities to our events going forward.”

At elite level, the domestic season tees off with the Scottish Boys’ and Girls’ Open Championships taking place 7-9 April at Lundin and Longniddry who will be celebrating their centenary.

Scottish Golf’s flagship Women’s and Men’s Amateur Championships will be staged over Gullane (4 – 6 June) and Murcar Golf Links & Portlethen (27 – 31 July) with Southerness (28 – 30 May) and the newly announced 2024 Open Championship venue Royal Troon (16-18 April) playing host to the Scottish Men’s Open and Helen Holm Scottish Women’s Open Championships respectively.

Elsewhere the Scottish Senior Men’s Open Championship will take place at Duff House Royal (16-18 June), Aberdour will host the Scottish Senior Women’s Open Championship (22 – 25 June) as part of their 125th-anniversary celebrations with the Scottish Boys’ and Girls’ Amateur Championships being held at Bruntsfield Links and Strathaven in July, with Kirkcaldy and Stirling completing the offering by hosting the Scottish Boy’s U14 Open and Scottish Girl’s Open (8 – 9 August) respectively. 

Participants should note that we will continue to work with our partners in Government and sportscotland to ensure that all events adhere to any restrictions in place at the time. 

Entries for all 2021 Scottish Golf National Championships will open on 1st February 2021 via the Scottish Golf App and website. To see the full 2021 schedule, please click here.

Scotland Central Ladies MGRanking - Week 50 / 2020

 SCOTLAND CENTRAL LADIES

1 Madeleine Macgregor (Hamilton) 1327 points

2 Alison Davidson (Stirling) 1222

3 Gillian Ping (Falkirk GC) 1181

4 Megan Docherty (Bishopbriggs) 1173

5 Jackie Carty (Hollandbush) 1163

6 Shaeen Ahmad (Balmore) 1157

T7 Anne-Marie Livingstone (Cawder) 1133 &

Ava Patterson (Tulliallan) 1133

9 Gayna McGreish (Balmore) 1117

10 Lorna Brown (Dunblane New) 1116

11 Jean Cosgrove (Falkirk Tryst) 1113

12 Laura Bissett (Braehead) 1111

13 Carrie Irvine (Bearsden) 1110

14 Andrea Torrie (Bearsden) 1106

15 Melanie Dunsmore (Dunblane New) 1104

SCOTLAND CENTRAL LADIES CLUBS

1 Braehead 996 points

2 Balmore 990

3 Tillicoultry 978

4 Grangemouth 959

5 Bishopbriggs 942

MyGolfRanking -- Scotland Week 49 / 2020

MyGolfRanking.net SCOTLAND GOLFERS of Week 2020/49 are MADELEINE MACGREGOR of HAMILTON LADIES retains her NUMBER ONE spot on SCOTLAND Ladies MGRanking

SCOTLAND LADIES

1 Madeleine Macgregor (Hamilton) 1327 points

2 Lynn Cranston (Liberton) 1292

3 Alison Davidson (Stirling) 1222

4 Alyson Phillips (Oldmeldrum) 1213

5 Dianne Watson (Leven Ladies) 1212

6 Colleen Stuart (St Regulus) 1190

7 Nicky Graham (Baberton) 1184

8 Gillian Ping (Falkirk GC) 1181

9 Megan Docherty (Bishopbriggs) 1173

10 Jackie Carty (Hollandbush) 1163

11 Shaeen Ahmad (Balmore) 1157

12 Isabell Donnelly (Gleddoch) 1150

13 Hazel Hume (Tillicoultry) 1144

14 Margaret Parr (Merchants of Edinburgh) 1142

15 Emily Aird (Blairgowrie) 1140

SCOTLAND LADIES CLUBS

1 Tillicoultry 1026

2 Braehead 997

3 Balmore 990

4 Loudoun Gowf 976

5 Grangemouth 959

6 Pitlochry 951

RENFREWSHIRE GOLFING STALWART NAN BLAIR (NEE MENZIES) HAS DIED

Home Internationals 1955 - Scottish Team 
Nan Blair (2nd from Right - back row) - All names in photo within the link in the Album below

PHOTO ALBUM OF NAN BLAIR 

It is with great sadness that I announce the death of Renfrewshire Ladies’ County Member Nan Blair (nee Menzies) 

Nan was a member of Erskine GC and then Ranfurly Castle GC and was one of the longest serving members of the County having joined in 1950 (70 years ago)

Nan, daughter of Alec Menzies who was a Scottish International golfer himself was selected to play in the Home Internationals at Royal Portrush after winning the RLCGA County Championship over Erskine in 1955 in devastating style, when she beat the West of Scotland Champion May Drummond of Paisley by 7 and 6.

In 1956 Miss Bettie Hendry (D&A) gave Nan Blair’s mother Mrs May Menzies £250 to start the West of Scotland Girls' Association. 

May Menzies was the first Chairman and she was assisted by Miss Jean McCulloch (West Kilbride), Irma Douglas (Wishaw), Mrs Nell McLean and Mrs Jean Buchanan (both Ranfurly Castle)  and Mrs Helen Lyon (East Renfrewshire) -  Together they formed the first committee of the WOSGGA. 

What insight these ladies had and because of them the association has been able to provide support and encouragement for girl golfers throughout the West of Scotland. There have been hundreds of members over the years -- some of whom have gone on to make golf their career and are well known names in the world of professional golf -- Mhairi MacKay, Janice Moodie and many more

Nan often relegated her golf to holiday golf, because of her Medical University examinations. However, intensive practice brought her game to its peak which made that year a very memorable one 

She was part of the Renfrewshire Team which, in 1954, at Gleneagles won the Scottish County Finals for the first time.  She was also in the winning teams in 1956 at Elie and and 1957 at Balgownie

She was then selected as Captain of the Scottish Girls’ team at the British Girls Championship at Troon Portland in 1966 - Nan who was a GP  then retired and lived in Bridge of Weir where she very much enjoyed art and music

When the County had their Centenary Celebrations in 2009 Nan took pride of place with RLCGA to cut the Centenary Cake with Centenary Captain Christeen Finlayson and the other longest serving member Heather Anderson. -- See Video

We send her daughters Judith and Jane and all her family our deepest condolences

Glasgow Herald  (4th December) 

BLAIR - Nan Aged 87 years, died peacefully at Elderslie Nursing Home on Monday 30th November 2020, beloved wife of Donald, proud mother of Judith and Jane and adoring grandmother of Hannah and Rory, retired GP to many in Bridge of Weir and Houston, friend to many more. Due to current restrictions, the funeral will be private at Woodside Crematorium on Monday 14th December at 11.30am. The family would be grateful for any donations in place of flowers to Alzheimer's UK. 

ELAINE MOFFAT WINS MASTERS CATEGORY FOR GOLFING ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2019/2020

From the East Fife Website

East Fife Annual Sporting Awards 2020 - Elaine Moffat won the 'Masters' category for her golfing achievements in 2019/20. 

This category was sponsored by St Andrews  Community Council. 

Elaine is the current Scottish Women's Senior Champion (2018 and 2019) beating West of Scotland's Donna Jackson in the 2019 final

Letter that Elaine received:

'On behalf of the EFSC Executive Committee I am writing to congratulate you all on being shortlisted for the EFSC Sports Awards 2020. We are very sorry not to be able to present these in person, but we are delighted to be able to write to you with the results'. 

Congratulations to winner Elaine Moffat and runners up Bill Duff and Miriam Rennet. 

With thanks to Royal Burgh of St Andrews Community Council for supporting this award

Martin Gilbert is set to become the Chair of Scottish Golf

 Martin Gilbert, one of Scotland’s best-known business figures, is set to become the chair of Scottish Golf, the national governing body of the sport in Scotland.

The Scottish Golf board has announced that Martin, who has actively supported golf in Scotland for over 20 years, will be presented as chair-elect at the AGM in March 2021, when Eleanor Cannon will step down after a six-year term as chair. 

 

Martin has been a prominent supporter of golf in Scotland for many years, firstly through Aberdeen Asset Management and latterly Aberdeen Standard Investments. Via his businesses he has also sponsored leading Scottish golfers including Open Championship winner Paul Lawrie, Women’s Open Championship winner Catriona Matthew and recent European Tour Winner, Robert MacIntyre. 
 

Eleanor Cannon said: “This is a tremendous coup for golf in Scotland and the entire board is delighted that Martin, whose passion and support for the sport are very widely known, has agreed to take on this role next year. 

 

“His achievements, both in business globally and in his role as the biggest supporter of Scottish Golf over the past two decades, speak for themselves and I am sure his dynamic approach will allow Scottish Golf to flourish. I am extremely pleased that our members and our sport will benefit from Martin’s guidance and undoubted love for golf in the years ahead.

 

Martin Gilbert said: “As many people know, golf has been a lifelong passion of mine and I’m hugely excited to be taking up this role in the Home of Golf. I commend Eleanor and her team for their sterling leadership of the new, amalgamated body since its inception in 2015. 

 

“The strategic direction that has been adopted by Scottish Golf is bold and exciting. I am very much looking forward to progressing this strategy and working closely with the board, the team and the membership in continuing to develop the game at all levels in Scotland.”

Saudi sweep’ joy boosts Michele Thomson

From The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire) 20 Nov 2020 

 Aberdeen’s Michele Thomson helped Denmark’ s Emily Pedersen complete a “Saudi sweep” after victory in both the team and individual events in the Saudi Ladies Team International. Pedersen, who won the Aramco Saudi Ladies International on Sunday, carded a final round of 67 at Royal Greens Golf & Country Club to finish two shots ahead of overnight leader Luna Sobron Galmes, Anne van Dam and Stephanie Kyriacou. 

That helped Pedersen’s group, which included Thomson and South Africa’s Casandra Hall, to win the team event by a shot, with Hall making a decisive birdie on the parfive 18th. Pedersen was ranked outside the world’s top 500 earlier this year but has now won three times since the end of August and has secured top spot in the season-long Race to Costa del Sol. 

“We did really well today, we complemented each other,” Pedersen said. “Today was the first day where we didn’t have a hole over par so I’m really happy that we got that done and it was a really clutch putt by Casandra on the last. 

“This has obviously been a strange year for all of us with Covid, everyone’ s saying it’s such a bad year and I’m here having the best year ever, so it’s a little weird but I’m just really happy.” Thomson, who won around £25,000, was selected by team captain Pedersen at the “draw party” earlier in the week. 

She said :“It’ s been unbelievable, I was absolutely delighted when I heard she’d picked me. “She is one of the best players I think I’ve ever played with and we just wanted to make some birdies out there. “Although I am about 10 years older than her, I have learnt a lot from her this week and I’ve gained a great friend this week.” 

Kyriacou chipped in for an eagle on the ninth, her final hole, to card a course record of 63 in the final round. Nairn’s Kelsey Macdonald finished top Scot in the individual event after rounds of 70, 70 and 71 for a five-under-par total. Alford’s Laura Murray and Thomson were both tied 68th on eight-over-par. 

COVID 19 -LOCAL AREA RULES -- UPDATE FROM SCOTTISH GOLF

FROM THE SCOTTISH GOLF WEBSITE 

Following our last communication on Tuesday 17th November, Scottish Golf is now in a position to provide all affiliated clubs with further guidance relating to the Scottish Government’s COVID protection levels by local area. 

With restrictions tightening across many parts of the country, we welcome the fact that on-course activity can continue across Scotland in compliance with local restrictions. In recognising the contribution of golf to the physical and mental health of our membership, we are most appreciative of the opportunity to keep the golf courses open and our golfing community benefiting from playing the game during these ongoing times of uncertainty.

We have been working with our partners at sportscotland and the Scottish Government to gain final sign-off on our latest version of our COVID-19 Guidance for Golf Clubs and Golfers which includes a new summary sheet detailing what golf activity can take place under each level of protection. This information should be used in conjunction with Scottish Golf’s main guidance and clubs should be aware that this guidance may be subject to further change. Should this happen, we will continue to keep all clubs informed. 

Through our ongoing work with The Scottish Government, MSPs on the Parliament’s Health and Sport Committee want to know more about the impact of COVID-19 and associated restrictions on sports clubs, sporting organisations and sports and leisure venues. Clubs are encouraged to complete a short survey which should take no more than 6-7 minutes to complete. Please note this survey closes on 7th December. 

It’s really important that the Committee capture as much insight and experience of the sector as possible to ensure MSPs have a full picture of the impact.

We know that these new restrictions are difficult, but it remains our shared responsibility to prioritise the health of our local communities by working together to follow the Government guidelines. In doing so, this will ensure that we continue to benefit from playing the game we love. We thank all of our clubs and golfers for continuing to play their part during these challenging times. 

We will continue to keep all clubs and tournament organisers updated via our dedicated COVID-19 webpage which can be accessed here. 

Kind regards,
Karin Sharp, Chief Operating Officer, Scottish Golf

Grace Crawford has a new Course Record over Longniddry

Grace Crawford from north Berwick  played in the ProDreamUSA UK Junior Open at Longniddry Golf Club in October and her score of 6 under  (66) in the last round last month has just been confirmed as the new ladies course record. Same course where she won the us kids golf European Championship when she was 8 years old!

Read more in the Scotsman Newspaper (26th October) on  ---- Rising star Grace Crawford follows in Catriona Matthew's footsteps at North Berwick

JENNIFER RANKINE IS THE NEW COURSE RECORD HOLDER OVER HAGGS CASTLE

It has been confirmed that  Jennifer Rankine is now the Haggs Castle Ladies Course Record holder with her 69 in the Tuesday Medal on the 18th August 2020 -- The previous record of 70 was held jointly by Claire Hargan and Adi Shamash

 

Thanks go to Neal Stewart for the update and photograph

COVID - 19 UPDATE FROM SCOTTISH GOLF

Following the First Ministers update in Parliament on Tuesday 10 November, Scottish Golf has been in further dialogue with our partners at sportscotland to gain further clarity on the current travel guidance in place. We are now able to provide the following updated travel guidance for all golf clubs below: 

 • You should avoid travel to other areas regardless of their level unless essential.

.• For exercise/sport – there is an exemption, however, it is limited: In Level 4, not permitted to drive outside your Local Authority area for exercise – you can cross boundaries in the process of exercising i.e if a golf course straddles two Local Authority area boundaries. 

 In Level 3 - You can travel anywhere within your local authority area to take part in sport. You may cross a local authority boundary by up to 5 miles if necessary, this includes where a golf course straddles two local authority areas. You can currently travel up to 5 miles into another local authority for sport where this is absolutely necessary and you cannot access the sport otherwise. 

If there is a more local option to play golf within your local authority area, this would be recommended as unnecessary travel is being actively discouraged.

 

 In Levels 0-2 - Adults should, where possible, minimise unnecessary travel between areas and not travel to a Level 3 or 4. It is important that we continue to show good adherence to the current guidance in place and Scottish Golf encourages all clubs and golfers to play their part in demonstrating that as a sport, we are acting responsibly and safely amidst the ongoing restrictions. 

 The current guidance for golf remains the same and is summarised below: 

 • On-course golf activities can continue under our current Phase 3 Guidance, with up to four players from four different households allowed to participate together. 

There are no changes to access to toilet facilities, locker rooms or professional shops which can continue to be utilised provided all appropriate measures, such as the use of face masks, increased sanitation are adhered to. 

• Clubhouses and sports facilities which provide catering and bar services, can operate providing they adhere to Scottish Government guidance appropriate to the protection level in which they are operating.

-- SOME KEY FEATURES OF THE SCOTTISH GOLF APP

With the new World Handicap System launching in Scotland on Monday, and more than 77,000 golfers now using the Scottish Golf App, over 400 golfers from across the country engaged with Scottish Golf’s latest Zoom Panel Call which focussed on showcasing some of the key features of the App, as well as answering some frequently asked questions. 

Hosted by Scottish Golf’s Club Business Manager, Iain Evans, golfers from across Scotland had the opportunity to hear from, and pose questions to, David Kernohan, Handicapping and Course Rating Officer at Scottish Golf, Gordon Crae from Gourock Golf Club and Joe Persh, Head of Development and Technology at OCS. -- Go to the Scottish Golf Website for More

Kylie Henry finishes with a flourish in Dubai -- A course record 63 !!

Kylie Henry -- Photo courtesy of the Ladies European Tour

Australia’s Minjee Lee captured her first LET title at the OMEGA Dubai Moonlight Classic with a clutch birdie putt from 20ft at the first extra hole to beat France’s Celine Boutier in a thrilling shoot-out under the Middle Eastern moonlight.

Tied at the top of the leaderboard in regulation at ten-under-par, just one shot ahead of overnight leader Caroline Hedwall, defending champion Nuria Iturrioz and Germany’s Laura Fuenfstueck, the pair could not be separated after Minjee posted a consistent round of 69 (-3) to Boutier’s 68 (-4).

Aside from the top of the leaderboard, Scotland’s Kelsey MacDonald finished strongly with a 68 to be in 8th position and West of Scotland's Kylie Henry had a day to remember, firing a course-record round of 63 to catapult herself from three-over-par to six-under-par and into the top ten. 

 Speaking about the round, Kylie said, “It’s my lowest stroke play round and It felt great. I hit it solid all round and was hitting it fairly close on most holes. The main highlight was the par 3 8th when I hit it to a foot with my 8 iron.” 

 She continued, “I’m just so delighted to be playing tournaments. I’m so grateful to everybody at the Tour who is working doubly hard and all our sponsors who’ve got us back up and running through this pandemic. It’s made us all remember how much we love the game and we’re really appreciating the opportunity to be out here competing for a living.”

Dubai-based Scot Alison Muirhead also finished in the top 20, signing off with a 70 for three-under.

CLICK HER FOR FINAL SCOREBOARD

MyGolfRanking -- West of Scotland Week 44 - 2020 - Final results

AYRSHIRE LADIES

1 Luisa Gibson (Irvine) 1099 points

2 Arlene Sinclair (Irvine) 1037

3 Gillian Gowers (Loudoun Gowf) 1017

4 Audrey Thompson (Loudoun Gowf) 972 

5 Anne Burns (Loudoun Gowf) 967

6 Fran Hadden (Kilmarnock(Barassie)) 959 

7 Liz Keohone (Loudoun Gowf) 947

8 Aileen Anderson (Loudoun Gowf) 945 

9 Margaret-Ann McCrorie (Irvine) 940 

10 Kelly McNee (Loudoun Gowf) 931 

11 Eileen Munro (Loudoun Gowf) 927 

12 Rona Walker (Kilmarnock(Barassie)) 923 

13 Jan Flint (Troon Welbeck) 920

14 Robina Gilbertson (West Kilbride) 916 

15 Helen Craig (West Kilbride) 914

AYRSHIRE LADIES CLUBS 

1 Loudoun Gowf 963

2 Largs 848

3 West Kilbride 844

4 Irvine 838

5 Kilmarnock (Barassie) 

DUNBARTONSHIRE/ARGYLL LADIES

1 Shaeen Ahmad (Balmore) 1157 points 

2 Gayna McGreish (Balmore) 1117

3 Carol Maclarty (Taynuilt) 1103

4 Monica Stewart (Douglas Park) 1089 

5 Nicola Madden (Hilton Park) 1083

6 Gemma Canham (Helensburgh) 1052 

7 Andrea Torrie (Bearsden) 1026

8 Rhona Murison (Douglas Park) 1025 

9 Carrie Irvine (Bearsden) 1019

10 Barbara Walker (Bearsden) 1015 

11 Nichola Kidd (Dunaverty) 990

12 Carol Fell (Douglas Park) 976

13 Elspeth Mulholland (Hilton Park) 951 

14 Ailie Macbrayne (Dunaverty) 937 

15 Carol Bews (Helensburgh) 935

DUNBARTONSHIRE/ARGYLL LADIES CLUBS 

1 Balmore 990

2 Bearsden 883

3 Taynuilt 865

4 Douglas Park 860

5 Clober 848

LANARKSHIRE LADIES

1 Madeleine Macgregor (Hamilton) 1327 points 

2 Megan Docherty (Bishopbriggs) 1173

3 Jackie Carty (Hollandbush) 1163

4 Anne-Marie Livingstone (Cawder) 1133

5 Yvonne Welsh (Playsport) 1095

6 Melissa Boyle (Cawder) 1075

7 Katie Graham (Hamilton) 1066

8 Jennifer Weir (Cawder) 1058

9 Lesley Watson (Cathkin Braes) 1046

10 Joy Mottram (Carnwath) 1042

11 Jan Kidd (Carluke) 1038

12 Susan Woodhouse (East Kilbride) 1035

13 Suzanne Woodman (Cathkin Braes) 1021 

14 Hayley McPherson (Bishopbriggs) 1014

15 Alice Brown (Bothwell Castle) 1002

LANARKSHIRE LADIES CLUBS 

1 Playsport 943

2 Bishopbriggs 931

3 Wishaw 921

4 Cawder 898

5 Carluke 897

RENFREWSHIRE LADIES

1 Isabell Donnelly (Gleddoch) 1150 points 

2 Lynn Forsyth (Paisley) 1061

3 Susan Morrow (Caldwell) 1060

4 Laura McGeachy (Haggs Castle) 1051

5 Susan Ramsay (Haggs Castle) 969

6 Jennifer Rankine (Haggs Castle) 968

7 Gillian Lavety (Old Course Ranfurly) 947

8 Birgit Clark (Old Course Ranfurly) 930

9 Moira Holt (Caldwell) 929

10 Ann McKenzie (Old Course Ranfurly) 927 

11 Sandra Bell (Old Course Ranfurly) 905 

12 Susan Ferguson (Caldwell) 903

13 Marion Downie (Old Course Ranfurly) 898 

14 Jennifer Owen (Old Course Ranfurly) 889 

15 Fiona Macphee (Old Course Ranfurly) 888

RENFREWSHIRE LADIES CLUBS 

1 Caldwell 926

2 Haggs Castle 920

3 Old Course Ranfurly 893

4 Paisley 834

5 Gleddoch 779

The last day for “counting competitions” for 2020 MGR Medals was 31 October.

Renfrewshire Ladies' County Pause their Winter Competition due to Scottish Golf -- Covid 19 Guidance 2nd November 2020

With the ever-changing situation regarding Covid-19, the Renfrewshire Ladies' County Golf Association committee have reviewed the latest travel guidance from both the Scottish Government and Scottish Golf in relation to their ongoing Winter 4 Ball Better Ball competition. 

Due to the travel restrictions in place, and members residing in different local authorities, they have taken the difficult decision to pause the competition. It is obviously disappointing to have to take this action, but they feel we are doing so to comply with the guidance and in the best interests of their members.  READ MORE 

FROM SCOTTISH GOLF WEBSITE YESTERDAY 

Scottish Golf is now in a position to provide all affiliated clubs with further guidance relating to the Scottish Government’s COVID protection levels by local area. The latest version of our COVID-19 Guidance for Golf Clubs and Golfers can be found on the Scottish Golf Website.The updated guidance is summarised as follows and unless otherwise stated are effective from yesterday 2nd November:

• On-course golf activities can continue under our current Phase 3 Guidance, with up to four players from four different households allowed to participate together. There are no changes to access to toilet facilities, locker rooms or professional shops which can continue to be utilised provided all appropriate measures, such as use of face masks, increased sanitation are adhered to.

• You should avoid travel to other areas regardless of their level unless essential.

• For exercise/sport – there is an exemption, however, it is limited:  

o In tier 4, not permitted to drive outside your Local Authority area for exercise – you can cross boundaries in the process of exercising i.e if a golf course straddles two Local Authority area boundaries. 

o In tier 3, you are permitted to travel around 5 miles for exercise. 

o In tier 2 & tier 1, you are permitted to travel freely for exercise within your own Local Authority area.
o U18s – can travel freely for exercise in Tiers 0-3. They should not travel in or out of a Tier 4 area.•  


All golfers should be aware of travel guidance outlined by the Scottish Government and this should always be followed.

• Clubhouses and sports facilities which provide catering and bar services, can operate providing they adhere to Scottish Government guidance appropriate to the protection level in which they are operating.


Once again, we would like to thank all of our clubs and golfers across Scotland for your continued co-operation and adherence to the current guidance and ask that you continue to play your part during these challenging times.

We will continue to keep all clubs and tournament organisers updated via our dedicated COVID-19 webpage on the Scottish Golf Website. 

Kind regards,
Karin Sharp, Chief Operating Officer, Scottish Golf

Top Ten in Central and East Scotland - MYGOLFRANKING

SCOTLAND CENTRAL LADIES

1 Madeleine Macgregor (Hamilton) 1327 points 

2 Alison Davidson (Stirling) 1222

3 Gillian Ping (Falkirk GC) 1181

4 Megan Docherty (Bishopbriggs) 1173

5 Jackie Carty (Hollandbush) 1163

6 Shaeen Ahmad (Balmore) 1157

7 Hazel Hume (Tillicoultry) 1144

T8 Anne-Marie Livingstone (Cawder) 1133 & Ava Patterson (Tulliallan) 1133

10 Gayna McGreish (Balmore) 1117 

11 Jean Cosgrove (Falkirk Tryst) 1113 

12 Laura Bissett (Braehead) 1111

13 Yvonne Welsh (Playsport) 1095

14 Monica Stewart (Douglas Park) 1089 

15 Nicola Madden (Hilton Park) 1083

SCOTLAND CENTRAL LADIES CLUBS 

1 Tillicoultry 1026 points

2 Braehead 997

3 Balmore 990

4 Grangemouth 959

5 Playsport 943

SCOTLAND EAST LADIES

1 Lynn Cranston (Liberton) 1292 points

2 Colleen Stuart (St Regulus) 1265

3 Dianne Watson (Leven GS) 1213

4 Margaret Parr (Merchants of Edinburgh) 1191 

5 Nicky Graham (Baberton) 1184

6 Linda Boyle (Harburn) 1125

7 Mhairi Ferrol (Elie & Earlsferry Ladies) 1120

8 Karen Gloag (Gogarburn) 1118

9 Alicia Hay (Ladybank) 1117

10 Alyson Scrimgeour (Dundas Parks) 1105 

11 Jane Grubb (Edzell) 1097

12 Jane Tough (Edzell) 1092

13 Margaret Boitz (Scotscraig) 1091

14 Julie Taylor (Edzell) 1090

15 Susan Arbuckle (Panmure) 1081

SCOTLAND EAST LADIES CLUBS 

1 Gogarburn 960

2 Harburn 947

3 Edzell 945

4 Brechin 938

5 Dundas Parks 937

WHS INITIAL HANDICAP INDEX EXPLAINED

The new World Handicap System (WHS) will be launched in Scotland, and the rest of GB and I, next week - Monday 2nd November

The current golf handicapping system maintained by CONGU will be replaced by WHS which will unify the six different structures currently in operation throughout the world of golf.

WHS Initial Handicap Index Calculation Explained

From Thursday 23rd October Scottish Golf started the World Handicap System (WHS) transition process of golfer handicaps as we move to implement the new WHS. The main part of this transition was the calculation of every current CONGU Handicap into a WHS Index and golfers may have noticed their projected handicap has changed several times over the last few days as we aligned the data from the two systems.

To find out more about how we have generated initial handicap values that are as accurate as possible, please click here to access the WHS Initial Handicap Index document. This document also aims to answer some of the additional questions members may have around the process. 

MyGolfRanking - West of Scotland - Week 43 - 2020

AYRSHIRE LADIES

1 Luisa Gibson (Irvine) 1099 points

2 Arlene Sinclair (Irvine) 1037

3 Gillian Gowers (Loudoun Gowf) 1017

4 Audrey Thompson (Loudoun Gowf) 972 

5 Aileen Anderson (Loudoun Gowf) 967

6 Anne Burns (Loudoun Gowf) 963

7 Liz Keohone (Loudoun Gowf) 960

8 Fran Hadden (Kilmarnock(Barassie)) 959 

9 Eileen Munro (Loudoun Gowf) 944

10 Margaret-Ann McCrorie (Irvine) 940 

11 Kelly McNee (Loudoun Gowf) 931 

12 Rona Walker (Kilmarnock(Barassie)) 923 

13 Jan Flint (Troon Welbeck) 920

14 Helen Craig (West Kilbride) 914

15 Sheila Adams (Loudoun Gowf) 907

AYRSHIRE LADIES CLUBS 

1 Loudoun Gowf 970

2 Largs 848

3 West Kilbride 844

4 Irvine 838

5 Kilmarnock (Barassie) 828

DUNBARTONSHIRE/ARGYLL LADIES 

1 Shaeen Ahmad (Balmore) 1157 points 

2 Gayna McGreish (Balmore) 1117

3 Carol Maclarty (Taynuilt) 1103

4 Monica Stewart (Douglas Park) 1089 

5 Nicola Madden (Hilton Park) 1083

6 Gemma Canham (Helensburgh) 1052 

7 Justine Fulton (Hayston) 1044

8 Rhona Murison (Douglas Park) 1025 

9 Carrie Irvine (Bearsden) 1019

10 Andrea Torrie (Bearsden) 1015

11 Ina Cameron (Bearsden) 1003

12 Barbara Walker (Bearsden) 1002 

13 Nichola Kidd (Dunaverty) 990

14 Carol Fell (Douglas Park) 976

15 Elspeth Mulholland (Hilton Park) 951

DUNBARTONSHIRE/ARGYLL LADIES CLUBS 

1 Balmore 990

2 Bearsden 908

3 Taynuilt 865

4 Douglas Park 860

5 Hayston 858

LANARKSHIRE LADIES

1 Madeleine Macgregor (Hamilton) 1327 points

2 Megan Docherty (Bishopbriggs) 1173

3 Jackie Carty (Hollandbush) 1163

4 Anne-Marie Livingstone (Cawder) 1133

5 Yvonne Welsh (Playsport) 1095

6 Melissa Boyle (Cawder) 1075

7 Katie Graham (Hamilton) 1066

8 Jennifer Weir (Cawder) 1058

9 Lesley Watson (Cathkin Braes) 1046

10 Joy Mottram (Carnwath) 1042

11 Jan Kidd (Carluke) 1038

12 Susan Woodhouse (East Kilbride) 1035

13 Suzanne Woodman (Cathkin Braes) 1021

14 Hayley McPherson (Bishopbriggs) 1014

15 Alice Brown (Bothwell Castle) 1002

LANARKSHIRE LADIES CLUBS

1 Playsport 943

2 Bishopbriggs 931

3 Wishaw 921

4 Cawder 898

5 Carluke 897

RENFREWSHIRE LADIES

1 Isabell Donnelly (Gleddoch) 1150 points

2 Lynn Forsyth (Paisley) 1061

3 Susan Morrow (Caldwell) 1060

4 Laura McGeachy (Haggs Castle) 1051

5 Susan Ramsay (Haggs Castle) 969

6 Jennifer Rankine (Haggs Castle) 968

7 Gillian Lavety (Old Course Ranfurly) 947

8 Birgit Clark (Old Course Ranfurly) 930

9 Moira Holt (Caldwell) 929

10 Ann McKenzie (Old Course Ranfurly) 927

11 Sandra Bell (Old Course Ranfurly) 905

12 Susan Ferguson (Caldwell) 903

13 Marion Downie (Old Course Ranfurly) 898

14 Jennifer Owen (Old Course Ranfurly) 889

15 Fiona Macphee (Old Course Ranfurly) 888

RENFREWSHIRE LADIES CLUBS

1 Caldwell 926

2 Haggs Castle 920

3 Old Course Ranfurly 893

4 Paisley 834

5 Gleddoch 779

Susie Robertson from Elie and Earlsferry Ladies is believed to be the first woman to ever play all 556 courses in Scotland.

From the Women and Golf Magazine 

Susie Robertson (pictured above) from Elie & Earlsferry Ladies is believed to be the first woman to ever play all 556 courses in Scotland. 

 Did you know that there are roughly twice as many golf courses as munros (or mountains) in Scotland? Well, Susie Robertson of Elie & Earlsferry Ladies Golf Club in Fife, certainly does. 

When her husband announced in 2005 that he was going to climb every mountain in Scotland, she decided to do one-up on him and challenge herself to play every single golf course in the country by summer 2020. And guess what.... she's only gone and done it. 

 

She has played 556 Scottish courses over the last 15 years. It saw her travel over 40,000 miles from as far north as the island of Whalsay, as far west as Barra, as far east as Peterhead and right down south to St. Medan. 

She's ticked off all the courses on the official Visit Scotland 'Golf in Scotland' guide plus some extra ones. After completing 556 courses she now thinks she's played roughly 15,000 (!) holes of golf. 

Playing off a handicap of 18, Susie believes she is the first female to play every course in Scotland. She finished slightly later than planned due to lockdown (we think we can let her off though), and she has just completed her last 18 holes at Gleddoch, Renfrewshire. 

 Reflecting on her achievement Susie said: "I've played golf all my life but feel very fortunate to still be fit and able enough to play every golf course in Scotland. "I have travelled in excess of 40,000 miles, played in hail, wind, rain and of course lots of sunshine, but most importantly have met some wonderful people along the way and enjoyed every single second." 

 Naturally, the rest of the members at Elie & Earlsferry Ladies Golf Club, which was founded over a century ago in 1884, are absolutely thrilled for her. 

 

Captain Susan Kennedy said "What an achievement it is. 

 To play every single course in Scotland takes a lot of time and dedication and we, at her home club, are all immensely proud of Susie's success." 

 We're incredibly proud of her too. Congratulations Susie! You are an inspiration to us all. Now go and put your feet up

From CarolFellGolf -- Amazing - Many congratulations Susie -- Having met you at the 2012 Ladies' Senior Home Internationals and you were captain of Elie at the time and Helen Faulds (Douglas Park and Elie) was the Scottish Team Captain you certainly were very active there - leading all the players to do some Scottish Country Dancing at the presentation Dinner. --  I am sure you will still be on the go and active as ever !

Here are some photos from "Down memory Lane Album " from October 2012 CLICK HERE FOR SCOTTISH SENIOR HOME INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHS and some VIDEOS from the entertainment after the event.

 

SCOTTISH GOLF APP FAQ SHEET

Scottish Golf have added  a Frequently Asked Questions link on their website about the Scottish Golf App you can download from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store depending on what type of modern phone you have (Apple or Android)

You will find out by clicking on the following link  --  Scottish Golf App questions and Answers 

WHS - What Are the Soft and Hard Cap ? - DAY 9

A player’s Low Handicap Index is remembered within the handicap formula – this is the lowest Handicap Index they have held within the last 12 months. 

The Low Handicap Index provides a reference point against which the current Handicap Index can be compared.

This is to help ensure that the player’s current Handicap Index cannot stray too far away from their demonstrated ability, in too short a space of time

If the new Index is more than a certain number of strokes above the Low Handicap Index, the cap is triggered.

The soft cap suppresses upward movement when the difference between the new calculated Index and the Low Index is greater than 3. 

The increase is suppressed by 50% of any value over 3.

The hard cap prevents further upward movement by placing a hard ceiling at 5 above the Low Index.

The soft cap and hard cap procedures only start to take effect once a player has at least 20 acceptable scores in their scoring record