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By the end of the 19th century, golf was becoming a popular pastime for gentlemen, but ladies were forbidden to join clubs. The Golf Magazine of 1891, however, thought the game desirable for women, 'combining a sufficient amount of exercise with the gracefulness of deportment which every true woman is properly proud of possessing'. Perhaps it was this notion that inspired the female family members of the Royal Liverpool Golf Club in 1894, to pressurise their men folk into putting up the money to lease a piece of common land on Oxton Heath. This was the beginning of Wirral Ladies' Golf Club, one of several to be founded at this time and yet one of a mere handful to have survived. The Birkenhead Advertiser of February 1894 reported that 'no longer were the sterner sex going to have it all their own way at the putting game, for Wirral Ladies' Golf Club now have their own links prepared for their own special behoof'. By 1907 the original 9-hole course had become a full 18 holes, thanks to the purchase of more land on the Heath. Certainly, Wirral Ladies' is special, and it now holds a unique position in the golfing world of the Wirral. It is the only course to be originally designed especially for women and originally with a largely female executive. In the original constitution, gentlemen were always permitted as 'associate members', a situation which continued until 1952 when they were granted equal standing by a change in the Articles of Association. Nowadays, the men's membership is greater than the ladies' membership and a new management structure means that men are equally represented on all committees. The Captain of the club, however, is always a lady member, as decreed by the constitution of 1894. This situation will have to change shortly under the Equality Act of October 2010. The matter is being discussed at length between Committee and the membership to ensure the best way forwards for the Club is found. Wirral Ladies' is a vibrant club with a historic past and an exciting 'present'. It provides an excellent opportunity for players of all ages and from all backgrounds to participate in the game of golf. the relatively short course of just under 5000 yards, means that a round is possible in under three hours, an important consideration for those with a busy lifestyle. The club has always encouraged its business ladies and provides alternative days and times for almost every competition. The opportunity to play at weekends with few restrictions makes it very attractive for women who work. Men's board competitions are nearly always played at weekends and midweek medals have late tee times available. For those who are able, a men's hat plays informally throughout the week at lunchtime. here are also many opportinities for mixed competition, some formal but others simply friendly get-togethers, often followed by supper. Juniors, both boys and girls, are encouraged and the course provides a good introduction to the game, and yet one which provides challenges for budding golfers. Current junior members of the club are competing in competitions at county and national level. Wirral Ladies' is a friendly club with a family atmosphere so please come and join us for tea, cake, or a game of golf! |