GOLF: Men and women to make history at Nairn County Championship
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BOTH men and women will compete in the Nairn County Championship for the first time in the tournament’s history.
Over 50 entrants, both male and female, will compete for the title which takes place at Nairn Golf Club on Saturday.
It is the first time that both men and women will be competing in the same competition at the Nairn County Championship.
The move was made to boost numbers in the competition, after last year’s tournament only drew a disappointing eight entrants.
Competitions and Handicap Convener Rob Smith says having both men and women in the same competition will give the tournament a new lease of life.
“It’s the first time men, women and juniors have competed,” said Smith ahead of Saturday’s tournament.
“Thanks to our inclusivity we have over 50 entrants and have attracted two new sponsors as a result.
“As far as I am aware, I believe we are the only county in the UK to try this.
“Two courses will be set up, the women will play on one course, the men will play on the other, and the player with the best gross score will win the title.
“Men and women, and players at junior and senior level are all eligible to enter the competition.
“This is a community competition, and we are trying to create a community atmosphere.
“Going forward, we want it to be an all inclusive competition.”
The tournament will be an 18-hole competition at Nairn Golf Club.
The competition previously took place over 36-holes, at both Nairn Golf Club and Nairn Dunbar Golf Club, which was attributed to the falling participation in the tournament.
Smith says by opening up the tournament to all ages and sexes, and reducing it to 18-holes, it will be of benefit especially to boys and girls golf in the area.
“There are so many good golf players at junior level, and I have always felt that they have been restrained by not being able to play in competitions due to their age.
“But they have the proven ability to be good enough to compete and they deserve to be given a chance.”
It is planned that the new golf competition will alternate between both courses in the town each year, with Nairn Dunbar Golf Club scheduled to host the competition in 2024. The first golfer will tee-off at 8am with the field competing for a prize pot of at least £1500 sponsored by 54 North Financial Planning and G F Job.
