Ladies first at Shrewsbury

With courses now back open after months in lockdown, Shrewsbury are starting eight weeks of group coaching lessons next month.

Golf professionals John Richards and Trey Niven will teach beginners how to swing a club, chip onto the green and escape from bunkers – with golf clubs provided for the sessions.

“Golf is simply an exhilarating sport which keeps you fit, helps you enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful tree-lined landscape and most importantly after a year of isolation for many, it offers friendships and a great social life,” said women’s club captain Pat Alexander.

“Lessons will include being paired with one of the club’s women members, who will act as a 'buddy' golfer to help with the rules of golf and offer tips and advice out on the course.

“It will be a fun time on the course and in the club house, too."

Would-be women golfers of all ages are urged to put on a pair of flat shoes or trainers and attend the Condover course in Grange Lane every Tuesday evening from 6pm to 7.15pm for eight weekly group lessons, starting on May 18 and running until July 6. The sessions are being run at a charge of £99.

Golf pro Richards said: “Shrewsbury Golf Club in Condover really is one of the finest golf courses to start your love of the sport.

"More women are joining and why wouldn’t you want to enjoy a four to five mile walk in beautiful countryside playing this very popular game?

“Shrewsbury Golf Club has the best practice facilities in the area with a large hitting area, chipping and putting greens and newly furbished practice bays which all help to provide the perfect environment to learn to play golf.”

There are already more than 120 women members at Shrewsbury Golf Club, whose ladies team was the outright winner of the Annodata UK Golf Club Classic held in Spain in 2019.

Members play in regional and national competitions, take part in weekly competitions of nine or 18 holes and also play in mixed team events.

Those interested in the learn to play golf programme are urged to call 01743 872977, email john@johnrichardsgolf.com or call in at the golf shop.