Short course is big boost for Monmouth
Golfers in Monmouth will benefit from an improved short course, thanks to grant of more than £5,000 from the Wales Golf Legacy Fund.
The funding will go towards a shorter course layout to allow beginners, juniors and anyone with mobility or health issues to enjoy a shorter version of the game while developing their skills.
The £35,000 Legacy Fund, administered by Wales Golf, celebrates both last year’s staging of the Curtis Cup at Conwy Golf Club, and the AIG Women’s Open, to be staged on Welsh soil for the first time at Royal Porthcawl in 2025.
“Having this year been successful in attracting new members under the New2Golf initiative, it is our intention both to extend this initiative and to re-establish a vibrant juniors section,” explained club management committee chair Alan Cairns.
“The short course will be a huge boon to these new members as it will enable a phased introduction in the golfing world.
“Additionally, as it will be a bespoke course our new members will feel involved from the start rather than being somewhat of an “add-on” tolerated by the other members.
“The ability to gain a WHS handicap across this short course will also assist in making the new members feel part of the golfing family.”
Wales Golf Women and Girls co-ordinator Simon Lu added, “Monmouth is a worthy recipient for this legacy grant, aimed at leaving a lasting benefit for the golf in Wales thanks to hosting these major events.
“While it was great to see the best amateur women players of Great Britain, Ireland and the United States competing in Conwy last year, and it will be fantastic to see the world’s best women competing in Royal Porthcawl, it is also important to impact the grass roots game across Wales.
“Facilities such as these will benefit young people looking to get into golf as a sport for life.
“We have learned the positive lessons from hosting the Ryder Cup in Wales in 2010. There were 40 facilities in Wales which were funded thanks to the Ryder Cup and we are pleased to say that all 40 are still operational and making a difference.”