Women and the passion of the swing

Minister Neita-Headley tees off the launch of Women’s Golf Programme.

The Ironshore Golf & Country Club on Sunday May 20, 2012 , launched its women’s golf programme at their facility. Natalie Neita-Headley, Minister with responsibility for Sports in the Office of the Prime Minister, “teed-off” the event.

The ladies in attendance at the golf clinic, which was hosted by resident golf-pro Oscar Brown, had a great time. They were enthralled in learning and later sought to outdo each other in the challenge at hole. Minister Headley herself participated in the clinic and later indicated she understood the passion which men have for the sport. The launch of the women’s programme is an extension of their commitment to increase golf play in Jamaica. In December 2011, they launched the junior’s programme by exposing students of the John Rollins Success Primary School to golf. Part proceeds of this event will be directed to the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation, Montego Bay Chapter.

Minister Headley lauded the management and staff of the Ironshore Golf & Country Club for the brave effort they have taken in extending what has been a male dominated sport to include women. She also encouraged them to make golf accessible to every Jamaican regardless of their economic and or social standing.

By the time of the 2016 Olympic Games, when golf will be reinstated as an Olympic sport, golf play in Jamaica would have increased significantly as the government has embarked on an expansion player education programme. The Jamaica Tourist Board has enhanced its marketing strategy by promoting Jamaica as a golf destination. To compliment this - golf education will form part of the curriculum of the Heart Trust Training Facility in Sligoville, which will become an extended sports training and education facility working in tandem with the G.C. Foster College.