Monday 7 February 2022

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:

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

    

Sunday 16 January 2022

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


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’.”

Friday 14 January 2022

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

Monday 10 January 2022

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.”

Thursday 23 December 2021

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)

Wednesday 22 December 2021

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

Read the full report from Martin Dempster (The Scotsman)

Thursday 16 December 2021

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

Monday 13 December 2021

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).


Wednesday 17 November 2021

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 

Tuesday 9 November 2021

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. -- 

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. 
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 

Sunday 7 November 2021

DONNA JACKSON IS THE NEW RENFREWSHIRE COUNTY CAPTAIN


The RLCGA AGM and prizegiving was held was held at Haggs Castle Golf Club on the Wednesday 3rd November.

Despite travel restrictions due to COP26 in Glasgow there was a very good turnout.

Donna Jackson (Troon Ladies) is the new County Captain taking over from Sandra Littlejohn (Erskine) and Liz Stewart (Greenburn) the new Vice Captain. 

Present and Past Captains with Pearl Orr (Honorary President)

Liz Stewart (Vice Captain) and Donna Jackson (Captain)

PHOTOGRAPHS -- COURTESY OF FIONA ARMOUR 

PAST PRESENT AND FUTURE CAPTAINS OF THE WEST VETS

Past, Present and Future Captains
Chris, May and Lesley

The West Vet's AGM and prizegiving took place on Thursday 4th November at Cowglen Golf Club. 

May Hughes (Lanark) took over the roll of Captain from Chris Fowler (Cowglen) with her Vice Captain Lesley Lloyd (Troon Ladies). 

Janette McCartney (Erskine) takes over from Sandra MacDougall (Kilmacolm) as Secretary and Jan Macnab (Ranfurly Castle) as Treasurer taking over from Mo Neilson (Greenock)

Committee members are Gillian McGinlay (Troon Ladies) and Fiona Cameron (Cowglen) 

To read more and see photographs - Courtesy of Fiona Armour (Whitecraigs)  -- Go to the West Vets Website

Thursday 28 October 2021

WILLIAMWOOD ARE THE 2021 GREENLEES CHAMPIONS -- LUNCH AND PRESENTATION OF TROPHIES AT EAST RENFREWSHIRE GOLF CLUB

Trophy Winners
Anne Judge (Ranfurly Castle), Julie Wilson (Williamwood) 
Barbara Aird (Cathkin Braes) and Chris Pender (Lenzie)


The Annual Greenlees Lunch and 
prize giving  took place on Tuesday 26th October, at East Renfrewshire Golf Club.  --  
Click here for photographs and Video

This was attended by 50 ladies representing the 20 Clubs from the 26 Clubs that that are in the 3 Greenlees Divisions.

East Renfrewshire's Greenlees Secretary Val Crawford and The Ladies Captain Carole Spy  welcomed the visitors to the clubhouse with a lovely glass of Prosecco.  
Anne Judge (Ranfurly Castle) helped to collect in the Greenlees Fees. 

The tables were named after  some of the East Renfrewshire Course Holes.

DOBSON VIEW: Val Crawford, Maureen Mitchell, Carol Fell and Carole Spy (Top Table)

BRITHER BURN: Williamwood
PILMAIR : Ranfurly Castle
GUID SKELP: Lenzie, Cathkin Braes, Bothwell Castle
OOT O'SICHT: Haggs Castle, Cathcart Castle and Cardross
BRAE SHOUTHER: Troon Ladies, Douglas Park, Cowglen
BUSKIT KNOWE: West Kilbride, Hilton Park, East Renfrewshire
BALLAGEICH: Whitecraigs, Loudoun Gowf, Erskine
HAME'S BEST: Kilmacolm, Caldwell, Lanark

West of Scotland Greenlees Secretary Maureen Mitchell (Old Ranfurly) opened the proceedings by welcoming everyone to the 80th Anniversary Year of the Greenlees Trophy. -- Apologies were announce from the Clubs that were unable to attend -- Ayr Bellisle, Kilmarnock Barassie, Largs, Milngavie, Old Ranfurly and Prestwick St. Nicholas. 

She then introduced the top table guests - Carole Spy , the Lady Captain of East Renfrewshire , who welcomed everyone on behalf of the Club and said 

"It gives me great pleasure to be able to welcome you to East Renfrewshire  today for the annual Greenlees Lunch and Presentation of Prizes.

It is lovely to see so many familiar faces from matches or from the 80th Anniversary celebration which we hosted just a couple of months ago.

Today’s weather is certainly better for a lunch than playing golf.

East Ren will be celebrating our centenary next year and you will have noticed that preparations are well underway to freshen up the clubhouse. Apologies if you can detect the aroma of fresh paint, although on the upside it probably means you don’t have COVID!

Congratulation to the winning teams and I hope that everyone enjoys their lunch and catching up with friends old and new."

She then introduced Carol Fell and said "Carol - well known to us all who keeps her website up to date which includes the  Greenlees Results which are available for all to see."

Next introduction was that of  the hard working East Renfrewshire's Greenlees Secretary Val Crawford who has had 2 lunches to organise for the Greenlees Trophy this year with the other one being the very successful Anniversary TRI AM ---> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE IN THE WOMEN AND GOLF MAGAZINE -- 

Val Crawford then said grace before everyone enjoyed a fantastic buffet lunch which everyone enjoyed.
After the lunch the presentation of trophies took place -- 



Winners of the Greenlees trophy -- Williamwood Golf Club
Runners up - Cathkin Braes
Demoted to Division 2  - West Kilbride and Whitecraigs

Winners of Division 2 - Ranfurly Castle
Runners Up - Loudoun Gowf
Demoted to Division 3 - Kilmacolm and Bothwell Castle

Winners of Division 3 - Lenzie
Runners Up - East Renfrewshire

Gillian, Julie, Lorraine and Carol

Williamwood
are the winners of the Greenlees Trophy for the first time in the history of their club and Julie Wilson collected  the Trophy and team mates Lorraine Morris, Gillian Crossley and Carol McNally joined in on the celebrations (pictured above)

Williamwood's Chris Crossley and Lorraine Morris are on Cloud Nine

The lunch and presentation of prizes finished with Maureen Mitchell thanking Dianne and her daughter Mel for the wonderful catering and feeding everyone so well.

She also thanked the Board of directors at East Renfrewshire for giving us permission use the clubhouse and also providing us with a welcoming drink.
Mr Ian Russell, Hilary and the office staff for all their support and to Carole Spy for presenting the prizes.

Finally she finished by saying the AGM would take place at Old Ranfurly on Tuesday 16th November at 10:30am for 11am and thanked everyone for coming wished everyone a safe journey home.


CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO OF PRESENTATION OF TROPHIES (Apologies to Barbara Aird of Cathkin Braes for missing video of her speech - Carol Fell)

Sunday 24 October 2021

RENFREWSHIRE LADIES ' COUNTY GOLF ASSOCIATION AGM NOTICE

Haggs Castle Golf Club


The 111th. Renfrewshire Ladies' County Golf Association AGM and Prize-Giving will take place on Wednesday 3rd November at 7.30pm at Haggs Castle Golf Club 

The Agenda and more information can be found by --  Going to the RLCGA Website or the interim Scottish Golf Website  which can be accessed on your SG App.

Monday 18 October 2021

ISLA MONCRIEFF WINS P&K CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS

Isla Moncrieff (Aberfeldy) & Caroline Henderson (P&KLCGA Match Secretary) 

Huge congratulations to Isla Moncrieff (Aberfeldy) who won the Perth & Kinross Ladies' Champion of Champions at Pitlochry Golf Club, yesterday (Sunday 17 October). 

Isla Moncrieff (Aberfeldy) shot a six-over-par scratch score of 78 over the Pitlochry Course to win the title by 2 shots. The runner-up was Carol Muir (Craigie Hill) who shot 80.

This tops off a great season for Isla, who plays off a handicap of 3. Not only did she win the Aberfeldy Ladies' Club Championship this year, but she was also a member of the Perth & Kinross Ladies' County team that won the 2021 Scottish Women's County Finals at Forres. 

The Leading Scores were: 
Isla Moncrieff - Aberfeldy Ladies' Club Champion 78
Carol Muir - Craigie Hill Ladies' Club Champion 80
Gwen Munro - Dunkeld & Birnam Ladies' Club Champion 83 

Course: Pitlochry - Par 72, Course Rating 70.2, Slope Rating 127

Thanks go to Jane Yellowlees (P&KLCGA Hon. Secretary) for the report from the P&K Website and for the photograph

Clober's May Myers receives a presention Trophy Gift for long sevices and Championship Titles won

May Myers receives her Presentation Gift 

A Presentation Day took place at at Clober Golf Club yesterday (Sunday 17th October ) for all medal winners and trophies for the season which included a presentation gift to May Myers,.
Former D&A County Team Player -- She is the  longest playing member at Clober aged 14 and  in her 58th year, won the championship 23 times 👏👏⛳️❤️ -- Many congrats May

Sunday 10 October 2021

WILLIAMWOOD WIN THE WEST OF SCOTLAND GREENLEES TROPHY

Greenlees Trophy 2021 Divisional Results

Many congratulations go to Williamwood Golf Club who have won the 2021 Greenlees Trophy.

Ranfurly Castle are Division 2 Winners and Lenzie Division 3 winners.

CLICK HERE FOR ALL RESULTS

The Annual Lunch and Presentation of Prizes this year will be held at East Renfrewshire Golf Club on Tuesday, 26th October at 12:30 pm for 1pm.

Monday 4 October 2021

JENNIFER LYNAGH WINS THE 2021 WEST GIRLS CHAMPIONSHIP

 
Jane Finnie presents the Trophy to Jennifer Lynagh
Photo Courtesy of Allison Bell

Jennifer Lynagh (Caldwell)
won the 2021 West Girls Championship  yesterday over The Ladies Golf Club Troon
In a great final, despite the wind, Jennifer beat Neve Marshall (Cathkin Braes) 2/1.
Ella McGrath also from Caldwell was the winner of the Bronze Championship.- Both winners are members of Renfrewshire Ladies' County Golf Association
Jane Finnie (Troon Ladies Captain ) presented the Trophies

Jennifer and Ella McGrath
Photo - courtesy of Allison Bell

Championship Results 

Semi Finals:
Jennifer Lynagh  (Caldwell) beat Louise Milligan (Irvine Bogside)
Neve Marshall ( Cathkin Braes) beat Lindsay Main ( Strathaven)
Final:
Jennifer Lynagh beat Neve Marshall 

The Bronze Championship Final 
Ella McGrath (Caldwell) beat Rebekah Sherry (Clober)

Tuesday 28 September 2021

Death of Counties Stalwart Margaret Duncanson

 It is with much sadness that Lanarkshire County have announced the death of Margaret Duncanson who died peacefully in her sleep  on Thursday at the age of  97. 

Margaret Duncanson in 2009 at the SLGA Counties Centenary Lunch
PHOTO ALBUM 2009


Margaret who retired in 1997 as the last Secretary of the Scottish Ladies County Golf Association, cut the cake at the Scottish Counties Centenary celebration in Edinburgh in 2009
CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING ——->>>>

WEST GIRLS WIN THE SCOTTISH JUNIOR TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS

Photo courtesy of Allison Bell

The West Girls’ 2nd Team won the Girls Section at the Scottish Junior Team Championship on Sunday  at Crail (Craigend) GC

The winning team :
Amelia Cochran (Kilmacolm)
Lindsay Main (Strathaven)
Neve Marshall  (Cathkin Braes)
Ella McGrath (Caldwell)
Sophie Murphy (Glasgow Golf Club)
Rebekah Sherry (Clober)

The1st team team representing the West Girls :
Caitlyn Bilham (Irvine Bogside)
Katie Dunne (Paisley)
Jennifer Lynagh(Caldwell)
Rosie Maguire (Pollok)
Louise Milligan (Irvine Bogside)
Katie Ronnie (Barassie)

Thanks go to Allison Bell for team names and photograph

Sunday 26 September 2021

West of Scotland’s Kylie Henry is Runner up in the Lacoste Ladies Open in France

Celine Boutier is the 2021 Lacoste Ladies Open de France champion after securing victory in the most dramatic of fashions at Golf Club du Medoc on the 18th September

The two-time Solheim Cup winner kept her nerve on a frantic final day in Bordeaux, before sinking a fantastic birdie putt on the last to take victory by a single shot ahead of Scotland’s Kylie Henry. 

 It wasn’t to be for Henry, who performed valiantly throughout the three days in Bordeaux – with just one bogey in her last 36 holes – but she was pleased with her performance in France nonetheless. “I’m really happy with how I played, I feel like I hit a lot of good shots on the back nine but I just didn’t manage to make any birdies,” Henry said. “Second place isn’t what you dream of but I’m still really happy because it is a good result and I’m happy to be back in contention. 

To read the full report go to the Ladies European Tour Website —->>>>
CLICK HERE

Thursday 23 September 2021

Gemma Dryburgh becomes Women & Golf Tour Ambassador

Gemma Dryburgh - Photo Courtesy of the LET

Today Women and Golf are excited to announce that Scotland’s highest-ranked female golfer, Gemma Dryburgh has become a Women & Golf Tour Ambassador.

Our mission at Women & Golf is to promote all levels of women’s golf and we are keen to have a stable of Ambassadors who reflect the diverse nature of our sport from grassroots to the elite end of the game. The aim is to follow their life in golf and hear first-hand from them what it is like to be part of a sport that we all love.

We will be following Gemma’s progress over the rest of the season and into 2022 as she heads back onto the LPGA Tour. This is her fourth season on the LPGA and she has had a strong return to the States, after events in Europe over the summer, finishing tied eighth at the Portland Classic. She is now heading to Arkansas and the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G.

CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK AND  ----->>> READ MORE  

Tuesday 21 September 2021

Elaine Moffat is the 2021 Scottish Vets Champion

Karen Marshall and Elaine Moffat 

Congratulations to Elaine Moffat (St Regulus)  on winning the Scottish Veterans' Ladies Golf Association Championship over the Lansdowne Course at Blairgowrie yesterday
She beat Karen Marshall (Baberton) after a low scoring final with the match finishing with Elaine one up on the 18th. 

RESULTS FROM BLAIRGOWRIE

Monday 20th September:


Tuesday 21st September 


For the full list of prize winners click on the following link ——>> SVLGA WEBSITE

Saturday 18 September 2021

FREYA RUSSELL IS THE 2021 AYRSHIRE COUNTY CHAMPION

Photo courtesy of Gaynor Russell

15 year old  Freya Russell ( Royal Troon ) is the 2021 Ayrshire County Champion  - She beat Jennifer Linklater (Largs)
 She is the youngest Champion that Ayrshire has had. 

Read the full report on the AYRSHIRE COUNTY WEBSITE

Wednesday 15 September 2021

RENFREWSHIRE COUNTY TRI AM STABLEFORD

Marilyn Muir, Rena Simpson and Margaret Adams
Courtesy of RLCGA

Renfrewshire Ladies' County Golf Association
held their Tri Am Stableford Competition yesterday over Gleddoch Golf Course in rather miserable conditions.

13 teams competed  with two scores counting at each hole and the winners with a best inward half of 71 points.

1st: Marilyn Muir (Old Ranfurly) Rena Simpson (Kilmacolm) Margaret Adams (Gleddoch) - 71 points bih

2nd: Chris Fowler (Cowglen), Sandra Macdougall Kilmcolm) and June Irons (Caldwell) 71 points

3rd:  Anabel Kane (Kilmacolm), Alison Macnab (Lochwinnoch) and Vicky Rennie (Ranfurly Castle) 69 points

For the full results CLICK HERE 

To read the full report Click Here



Tuesday 7 September 2021

DOWN MEMORY LANE -- LEONA MAGUIRE - SOLHEIM CUP STAR

Leona and Lisa Macguire 2011
The McGuire twins win the team award for Ireland -- Troon Ladies Captain Gilly McRae presents the Trophy


Leona MacGuire 2010
At the Helen Holm 

Leona McGuire  - Helen Holm winner 2009 


In 2009 -- Teen sensation Leona Maguire made history when she became the youngest winner of the Helen Holm Scottish Women's Amateur Open strokeplay title at Royal Troon in 2009

The Cavan prodigy, 14, finished two shots clear of Scottish Under-21 champion Kelsey MacDonald for a wire-to-wire win on six-under par.

Twin sister Lisa finished tied for third on three under par thanks a third successive round of 74. She birdied four holes coming home but a bogey six at the 16th cost her a share of second place with runner up MacDonald --- CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

With Leona Macguire being the GB&I  star performer (4.5 points out of 5) in the 2021 Solheim Cup, it reminded your webmaster of being at the  2010 and 2011 Helen Holm Trophy at Royal Troon where she was playing and taking some photos with many of our Scottish players taking part and many supporters there 

HERE IS A REMINDER -- DOWN MEMORY LANE PHOTOS (plus the 2012 Curtis Cup that she was in)

2010 HELEN HOLM PHOTOS  

2011 HELEN HOLM PHOTOS