A Warminster woman is encouraging others to take up a golf club – no matter their age – after discovering the sport later in life.
Iris Macey was 58 when she first tried golf and now at 86, she’s still playing twice a week with the West Wilts Golf Club Ladies’ Section in Warminster and says it’s never too late to try something new.
She’s the oldest member and describes the group as her “saviour” since the death of her husband three years ago, saying the friends she’s made through golf have been a lifeline.
“The ladies are all so friendly,” said Iris. “If someone is ill, they’ll get messages, on special birthdays they always send a card. It is so much more than just the golf here – it’s a group of such kind and caring people.
“Golf is my saviour. It’s given me a sense of peace since my husband died and keeps me fit and healthy.
“When Thoulstone Park Golf Club opened – it’s since closed – I used to walk around there with my husband. Eventually, at 58, I thought “I’ll give this a go.” I absolutely loved it despite never having tried golf before.
“Before my husband died, we would travel all over to play golf, it’s a great activity for married couples.
“I’m 86 years old, but I feel young. I was late to start golf at 58 but it hasn’t stopped me in any way. I would say it’s never too late to try something new, give something a go and see what you can achieve.
“Golf is my happy place and it could be yours too.”
Following her late start, Iris went on to become Ladies’ Section captain at both Thoulstone Park and Orchardleigh Golf Clubs, raising hundreds of pounds for charity. Today, she’s the oldest member of the West Wilts Ladies’ Section and continues to play at least twice a week in all weather.
The Ladies’ Section at the West Wilts Golf Club started in 1977 and there are currently 50 members from Warminster and the surrounding towns and villages. Iris also helps out around the club and tends to the garden pots and flowers on display.
Members are free to play whenever you want; however the ladies generally get together on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Ladies’ Section at the club can make arrangements to give new members a tour of the club and the course.
Any women interested in joining the Ladies’ Section can call 01985 213133 to find out more.
