The men of the Northamptonshire Golf Union and the women of the Northamptonshire Ladies’ County Golf Association have both unanimously agreed to merge, becoming the first country golf associations to do so. The merger has been welcomed by England Golf.
The two merged governing bodies will form a new company, Northamptonshire Golf Ltd, to be run by a board of directors of either gender elected on the basis of “the best person for the job”. The benefits envisaged include streamlining administration and the production and implementation of a co-ordinated plan for golf development in the county. Importantly, there will be one organisation representing Northamptonshire golf at local and national level.
David Foley, President of the Northamptonshire Golf Union, commented, “This is a fantastic outcome following months of work by the men and women of the respective county committees. We have demonstrated we can work together in a harmonious and effective manner. We are all looking forward to the challenges ahead and are excited by the new opportunities this merger offers us. The future of golf in Northamptonshire is very bright.”
Mary MacLaren, County Captain of the Northamptonshire Ladies’ County Golf Association, remarked, “This is a very exciting time for Northamptonshire Golf – the task that lies ahead is both challenging and inspiring and I am confident that we will be able to enhance the business, sporting and playing opportunities within our county.”
David Joy, the chief executive of England Golf, welcomed the merger and said, “We are delighted that this merger process has now been completed. There are several other counties actively engaged in merger discussions and this success in Northamptonshire will, I am sure, encourage other counties to explore the many benefits of a merged county golf organisation.”