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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 designed especially for women, and the only club whose executive are largely female. 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 and women's membership is almost equally divided and a new management structure means that men are well represented on all committees. The Captain of the club, however, is always a lady member, as decreed by the constitution of 1894. Wirral Ladies' is a vibrant club with a historic past and an exciting 'present'. It provides an excellent opportunity for women 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 women 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. As well as monthly medal and stableford competitions, all ladies, whether working or not, compete for a host of other cups and trophies, many of which have been presented by or in memory of those pioneering women who form part of the club's history. There 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. |