Sandford Springs Golf Club take steps to grow ladies section
SANDFORD Springs Golf Club is taking steps to grow its female membership.
The club, located just outside Kingsclere, has long played host to a large ladies section.
In recent years, however, that number has been in decline.
Diane Boddy explained how a recent Women into Golf scheme has helped to bring new energy to the club.
“When I was captain in 2007 we had 130 lady members,” she said.
“Sadly, over the years people have left, moved or passed on.
“We’re actually now down to about 60 members. That’s where the problem comes from.”
Diane, along with Jean Milford, Trish Wood and club professionals Chris Blunden and Daniel Cliff, have put together a plan to address the issue and launch a scheme to encourage more ladies to give the sport a go.
They are being backed by the current lady captain Bev Bonner and club manager, Tom Moran.
“I thought we had to do something about the lack of lady members,” she explained.
“Using the format from another club, who have been running a similar initiative for several years, we have held a number of taster sessions.
“These have been very well received with plenty on offer for any lady willing to give the sport a go.”
The club has been delighted with the response and support so far, with many of the 38 ladies involved providing positive feedback.
“I really enjoyed today, you all made us feel so welcome and were very encouraging, so thank you so much for setting up this initiative,” said one.
“I’ve been practice swinging in the garden this afternoon! I had forgotten how much I enjoyed golf so hope to now re-engage,” said another.
“Thank you again for such an enjoyable session yesterday and for the lovely welcome from the golf ladies,” another concluded.
Such positive reviews are testament to those involved with the club, and the drive to boost the female membership is now in full swing.
“One lady was an absolute beginner,” said Diane.
“She wasn’t sure how to hold the club, but became really spurred on and kept going and was hitting the ball well by the end of the hour.
“They’ve all been very enthusiastic and the hope is that some will join the club as full members.”
“We’re now running a four-week programme to extend their skills.
“The first four-week follow-on programme started this week, teeing off on Wednesday with 15 participants.”
The next is on Saturday morning with another strong turnout expected.
The ladies section at Sandford Springs has a busy season to look forward to, with plenty in store for any new members.
There is a ladies’ morning on Tuesdays, where tee times are set aside for general play or mini fun competitions, excellent for beginners.
Competitions run from Easter onwards.
There are knockout competitions, including a mixed knockout where gents and ladies play together.
There are lots of trophy competitions too, which produce an honours board result.
New members can look forward to joining a community of friendly and like-minded individuals.
For Diane, however, golf is just as much a social activity as it is a competitive pursuit.
“Even if you’re having a bad round, you’ve got fresh air, exercise and company,” she said.
“To come out and play golf is really good for your mental health.
“You can meet people, have a good chat and play some golf as well.”
The club is hoping to run similar courses in the autumn.
Those interested in learning more or getting involved should visit sandfordsprings.co.uk/golf/the-ladies-section for more information.
For any further enquiries, Trish at WiG.ss2025@gmail.com will be happy to help.
