We have seen a rise in women’s golf over the past few years. In fact, in 2017, the percentage of adult golfers in the UK that were women was between 12 and 13%. However, by 2021, that number has grown to 34%. It seems that the pandemic saw a shift in the amount of women playing the sport, but why? And why were there fewer women in the sport in the first place?
Why were women not playing golf before the pandemic?
The barriers of entry for women and golf have been standing for a long time. There seemed to be a widespread perception that golf was a sport that could be played by men alone. Unfortunately, this stereotype was not helped by the 2016 Muirfield sexism scandal, in which the oldest golf club in the world, Scotland’s Muirfield Golf Club, refused to overturn a 228-year men-only rule.
As well as this, the cost of playing golf makes it difficult for any newcomers, not just women. Paying for a golf club membership is often a hefty monthly expense, and having to pay for multiple clubs, balls, clothing and extra equipment makes it an inaccessible sport for many. Costs aside, historically there has been a lack of female golfing equipment on the market.
What changed?
Whilst golf is still a male-dominated sport, luckily the sport seems to be moving in the right direction and we have seen an increase in the number of women hitting the green.
The pandemic saw a surge in women’s participation, largely due to it being one of the first outdoor activities to be permitted following the strict lockdowns. For many women, it was the perfect opportunity to give the sport a go, and optimistically, 95% of the 830,000 women who tried golf for the first time in 2020 said they will continue to play.
The pandemic also allowed existing female golfers to hone down their skills. England Golf Women’s Performance Manager, Rebecca Hembrough, said the lockdown allowed players to focus on strength and conditioning, nutrition, and course management.
UK golf clubs have also been instrumental in the increase. They have been proactive in attracting female golfers by creating initiatives such as lowering membership prices, introducing creches and putting on free taster sessions. Female golfing professionals have been supporting these coaching sessions, and there has even been the emergence of women-only golf courses, such as Formby Ladies Golf Course, to make it less daunting for new golfers.
Simultaneously, there has been a rise of high-profile female golf influencers that have helped to raise the profile of the women’s sport, and more live coverage of female golfing events – such as the Solheim cup and Rose Ladies Series – has also increased its following.
Fortunately, the stereotypes of golf being an elitist, male-only sport are gradually being erased and more and more women are taking it up.
How Cash Fore Clubs can help women in golf
At Cash Fore Clubs, we offer a wide range of golf clubs and other essentials to suit both female and male golfers of all levels and budgets. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking to upgrade your equipment, we have what you need to play your best. Shop our selection of golf clubs today.
