Golf for Women and Girls

Clubs looking to grow female participation may not realise that traditional course yardage is often out of scale with the game women play. 

Women are keen to Get into Golf. Improved momentum in welcoming women and girls is evident and often includes introductory programmes. However, these initiatives don't always translate into regular course play and commitment to club membership. While busy lives and traditional club culture hold some back, there is more to this story that is not well recognised.

Today, many female golfers favour a casual, enjoyable and quicker game. In contrast, the standard women's course length of over 5000 metres is best suited to low markers and the elite. Play from this yardage contributes to a demanding and time-consuming outing for many including high handicappers and those new to the game.

The ‘‘Ladies” tee was prescribed initially as an afterthought in the early twentieth century. Since then, course set-up suited to the women's game has gained little attention in Australia. While the game has evolved, many clubs have overlooked play from the women's tee.

Most women take up golf following retirement, and skill levels vary tremendously. For clubs aiming to grow the women's game, provide an enjoyable on-course experience and develop return play, it makes little sense to ask every skill level to play from the one tee. 

Forward-looking clubs understand that one-size course - one tee - and one yardage may not suit all players, especially considering that GA handicaps now extend to 54.  

In the modern era of golf, offering course flexibility and professionally planned forward tees is best practice. This will allow more women to come within reach of greens in regulation figures, aid scoring and lift enjoyment and the pace of play.