GUI President calls on clubs to welcome families
OUTGOING President Peter Sinclair called on golf clubs to become more welcoming of children and families when he spoke at the GUI’s AGM held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown last Saturday.
“The future of golf ultimately rests with those who have not yet held a club in their hands,” he said. “We must imbue the next generation with the same passion that we have for golf.
“Golf has so much to offer but it is important to recognise the challenges that we still face. Life is changing and today’s young people want more than mere membership of a golf club.
“Clubs must modernise and make families feel welcome. We need to be more tolerant of youngsters. We must be conscious of how society has changed over time. We have to adapt to accommodate people’s tastes.”
Fewer than 90 of the GUI’s 407 affiliated clubs attended the first GUI AGM open to clubs since 1908, but the GUI hopes more will attend in 2019 when the new system, which has replaced provincial delegate representation on the now-defunct Central Council, gains more traction.
Templemore’s John Moloughney was elected as the 70th President of the GUI while Jim McGovern from Castlebar will serve as President-Elect.
Kilkea Castle Golf Club’s affiliation to the Union was also ratified. Election of Officers President, John Moloughney (Templemore); President-Elect, Jim McGovern (Castlebar); Hon. Treasurer, Rollo McClure (Malone); Hon. Secretary, Albert Lee (Mullingar).
Board — Chairman, Iognáid Ó Muircheartaigh with President, President-Elect, Hon. Treasurer, Hon. Secretary as above. Connacht Nominee, Michael Heaney; Leinster, John Ferriter; Munster, Jim Long; Ulster, John White; Independent members, Keith McGarry, John Power.
Trustees: Connacht, Fred W Perry; Leinster, Walter Skelton; Munster. Sean MacMahon; Ulster. William G Black. Newly affiliated club: Kilkea Castle.