The Ayrshire Ladies County Championship was held at Gasgow Gailes, 14th-16th April, a special venue to celebrate Ayrshire’s Centennial Year. County members from Brunston Castle welcomed this one - off invitation to play from the Killermont Club. Marion Wilson did not enter the matchplay stage, preferring as Ayrshire President to let the young hopefuls do battle and keep an eagle eye out for the most promising up-and-coming talent when invited to referee on the final day.
Lesley Hendry [Routenburn] beat Hannah Gaunt [LGC Troon] by 4 & 3 to take the title for the fourth time, in wild, windy, but sunny conditions. Schoolgirl Hannah put up a spirited defence till the turn when Lesley turned up the heat with some splendid golf in front of a good size gallery.
The President of the Ayrshire Men presented the Ladies with a Centennial Quaich - suggesting perhaps a Junior tournament after seeing the quality of the youngsters in action. The Club Captain who had acted as Starter presented the winners with their trophies, and encouraged all the Ladies to return in future as guests of a member.
Ayrshire Ladies were invited to enjoy the hospitality of the newly refurbished clubhouse for the three days with such warmth and courtesy, it was remarked by many that although Gailes is a ‘men only’ course - no red tees - it should be referred to as a ‘gentlemen only’ club. A wonderful advert for the new face of the sport two days before Golf Awareness Week - and thoroughly appreciated by all 100 Ladies playing.
