Getting The Fairer Sex On The Fairways

Ealing Golf Club helps women get into the swing of it

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"The best kept secret in West London

Originally designed by Harry Varden, and later by Harry Colt, Ealing Golf Club is a challenging Par 70, 6144 yards golf course and has produced players to the highest standard in Amateur Golf. But don't let that scare you off - it is not physically demanding and competitors of all levels and age can enjoy a comfortable round. "It's not the longest but it's tight and demanding. We're unique in that we have the River Brent impacting on 10 holes," says General Manager Guy Stacey.

 
Participate

Do you know someone who would be interested in the club holding another taster session?

Tell them to call the office on 020 8997 0937 or the Pro Shop on 020 8997 3959 or alternatively email Ricky at ealinggolfshop@aol.com.

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Tired of being a golf widow? Well, if you can't beat them why not join them? And who's to say you won't beat them to boot!

It's the first golf course you come to as you drive out of West London. Our best kept secret, Ealing Golf Club, has traditionally played host to some of the best men's golf. Ricky Willison, the club's Professional, played in the Walker Cup;Andrew Rogers, now a Club Professional in Australia, became an International as did Yasin Ali.  In 1991, Ricky and Andrew were both selected for England against Spain - only the second time in the history of English golf that two players from the same club have represented their country. But that's enough about the men - now the club is turning its attention to the ladies!

This February has seen the launch of a new golf academy for Beginners and Improvers, with a free 'taster' for ladies and girls. The initiative aims to introduce more women to golf and build the membership of that section.

Feedback from wives of Ealing Golf Club members has pointed to lack of confidence standing in the way of women's participation. The idea behind the women-only taster is that they get to make all their mistakes with fellow novices. And having been along to the taster, I think the thinking behind the idea is spot on. I definitely played slightly under par, and in a different setting would have found my poor swing too much to endure, but despite my failings I walked out a golf convert.

Club Pro Ricky Willison was on hand to provide advice on everything from swing to suitable attire. His tips on how to grip the sheath not only ensure that no bad habits are formed but are invaluable in enabling the most nervous golfer 'look the part'.

"As much as you'd like to think there are no longer any barriers to women, it's still predominately a male sport," explained Ricky.

This taster session has been and gone but all is not lost! The club assured me that if there's interest more will follow. And for those who attended this first taster, their academy lessons await.

Beginners will learn the basics of golf, with clubs and balls provided - trainers can be worn, so no investment in equipment is needed. Cost is £95.

Improvers will have lessons on the course, including an individual lesson with the Pro over eight holes, as well as on the practice ground. Cost is £200.

New Academy Membership

Additionally, Academy Membership will be introduced - a new category designed to introduce to ‘Club Membership’ those who have completed the Improvers course, or players of a certain proficiency. It will also enable them to obtain a handicap. 

It includes membership for four months, 12 rounds of golf on Monday to Thursday, introduction to playing partners and playing lesson with Ricky over eight holes. Additional rounds can be played at Members’ Guest rates. Total cost is £335 including joining fee of £60.

 

Charlie Canniff

February 15, 2008

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