The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Brora in awe over support
Golf: Members rally after club reveals struggles due to outbreak
Brora golf club officials say they are overwhelmed by support received after its president admitted the club could struggle to survive through the coronavirus outbreak.
The government’s restriction which prevents people from leaving home, aside from essential supplies and exercise, has caused the closure of golf clubs throughout the country for the foreseeable future.
Following the closure of Brora’s course and clubhouse, president Andy Stewart earlier this week issued a plea for help to its members, in which he anticipated the forthcoming period of shutdown could threaten the 129-year-old club’s existence.
Having been heartened by the response received from its membership and beyond, the
Sutherland club has now issued an online statement which says members will shortly be informed of ways in which they can support the club’s future.
The statement said: “We have been truly overwhelmed with the messages of support for our club and course. We will update you with how you can help in the coming days.”
Brora’s message of gratitude will offer hope for the club, following the rallying cry issued by Stewart in his letter to the members on Tuesday.
Stewart’s letter said: “As you will be aware, this virus has wide ranging effects. The committee, who spend many hours working on behalf of the members, have been working doubly hard just to keep the club going.
“We need the support of all our members at this time if we are to survive.
“This is a member owned golf club and the members will determine whether or not we exist beyond this.
“I am working on a communication for members which will properly clarify the financial position of the club and what we need to do going forward to maintain your club’s survival.
“Please stay safe and we thank you for your ongoing support.”
Brora, which was initially set up as a nine-hole course in 1891 before being extended to 18 holes nine years later, has won the adulation of some of golf ’s biggest names.
Australian golfer Peter Thomson, who won The Open Championship five times, described Brora as one of his favourite courses and America’s Tom Watson was awarded an honorary membership of the course in 2018.