Lady Captain; Sally Bird didn't get chance to give her usual end of year speech at the Ladies A.G.M., the ladies section has been sent the report, however we felt it would be appropriate for all members to read....

I sadly feel there is only one way that I can start this report and that is to recognise the losses that we, as a ladies’ section, golf club, and as friends, have experienced this year. Firstly, with the sudden, unexpected, and most tragic loss of Stretton Wright, whose immeasurable contribution to our club can simply not be put into words. And then of Julie Wright, whose kindness and love for the ladies’ section undoubtedly contributed enormously to Hornsea Golf Club ladies over many years. Both Stretton and Julie, our dear friends, are wholeheartedly missed, but their legacy continues today, and will for years to come.

I would like to now take you back to the beginning of my year as your lady captain. We started with a first for the ladies’ section, on the first of the first 2020, as I completed my drive in alongside the gent’s captain, Ross Meggison. Dressed as a butcher and championing the absolute best of British produce, I stepped on to the first tee, club in hand, ready to face Stretton’s awaiting challenges. Exploding balls and a few giggles later, my first shots as lady captain had been taken and my year began. Thank you to everyone who joined us on that day, and for all your messages of support and good wishes.

Roll-ups started and were enjoyed by everyone. Fill-dyke February followed, resulting in some of our competitions being postponed, before March and better weather arrived. Competitions began, with successes for many members, and we were all looking forward to, and warming up nicely, for the forthcoming golfing season. Little did we realise the impact that a virus could, and would have on all our lives, and for such a prolonged period. But Covid-19 arrived, the golf club was closed and golfers across the country were sent home as part of a national lockdown.

Following strict guidelines, the golf club reopened in May and we enjoyed being able to be back on the course. Unfortunately, due to government restrictions, we have been unable to enjoy all the things that we look forward to over the course of the calendar year, including my Lady Captain’s Day. However, I am grateful that we have still been able to enjoy some events; September brought some personal highlights for my year, notably the Lady Captains Mixed; Cawkill Trophy and the Lady Captain’s Away Trip, this year to Kenwick Park. I am also delighted to say that I have achieved my own goal of holding a handicap below 20!

2020 has been an unprecedented year for us all. Whilst golf itself may not have been played throughout the year, there has certainly been no slowing down behind the scenes. My heartfelt thanks go to everyone at Wright Golf Services, who have continued with their unwavering dedication to the demands of the golf club in the most extreme and difficult circumstances. I must give a special mention to Paul Gibson, for his endless support, encouragement, and enthusiasm, not only towards myself but to everyone at Hornsea Golf Club. I wish you well at Beverley, Paul, and would like to offer a very warm welcome to our new professional, Richard Pace. I must say thank you to all my team captains, for their support and efforts in organising their respective matches, as well as congratulations to Rosie Atkin and Angie Hinch for their success in reaching the semi-finals of the EYLWGA. Thank you to Gareth, and all his team, who continue to maintain the course that we all love and enjoy.  Finally, thank you to everyone who has continued to attend committee and board meetings; I greatly appreciate that you give up your time to partake, offering your expertise and help- thank you.

For the Lady Captain’s Charity, this year I chose to help Hull and East Riding Sight Support, as well as donating to Hornsea Golf Club. At the time of writing, a total of £664.10 has been raised. Thank you to all members who have contributed throughout the year. In place of Christmas cards and presents for the ladies’ committee members, I have also chosen to make a personal donation to the fund.

I wish Jan Elder warmest wishes for her upcoming captaincy and take this opportunity to thank all the ladies who have offered their support in what has been an undoubtedly difficult year. I would like to finish by asking everyone to take a moment to reflect on what it means to be part of the ladies’ section at Hornsea Golf Club. We are only ever as strong and successful as the effort that everyone will put into our section. This has never been more relevant than in current times, in which every aspect of our home and golfing lives has restrictions and challenges.

My absolute best wishes to all.