Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/130253
iG1304--rev 5/12/13 10:02 AM Page 1 GROWING THE GAME IMAGE CREDIT ROBERT SMITH (ROBERT@SMITH.BC.CA), BY GAYLE MOSS (WWW.GOLFGAL.CA) Golf Fore Gals: On A Mission To Grow Women's Golf In BC With a new website, enhanced Beginner Program and targeted social media marketing campaign, this all-women golf club is looking to revitalize the golf industry in BC, one female golfer at a time. Golf Fore Gals (GFG), a multi-course golf club in British Columbia for women of all ages, skill levels and lifestyles has launched a BC-wide initiative to bring more women into the game. Although Canada can be proud of having one of the highest per capita golf participation rates in the world, recent research has found that the number entering the sport is equal to the number exiting. And even more disturbing is the fact that women are entering and leaving the game at a much higher rate than men. There are many reasons for this trend, not the least of which includes money, time and family obligations. Recent research suggests that women abandon the sport more quickly because they feel: - The effects of "stereotype threat" which makes them predisposed to believe they're going to fail at the game. 18 - Intimidated and unwelcome in a maledominated environment - A lack of other women with which to play Golf Fore Gals is working hard to break down these barriers for women in BC, by offering them a fun, safe and welcoming environment to: - Discover the joys of golf - Build new social & business relationships - Book tee times 120 days in advance without paying any pre-booking fee - Improve their game through a series of lessons, clinics and seminars held throughout the year With three membership levels (Beginner, Social and Handicap/Golf Canada), women of all ages and golf abilities will find one that fits their lifestyle and desires for coaching, course rating, seminars, tournaments and competition. The GFG Community includes working women, retired women, executives, stay-at-home moms, young professionals and students from ages 25 to 85+. GFG recently launched its new website where it introduces new programs to grow women's golf in BC and Maui. At the top of its "grow golf" agenda this year is an enhanced Beginners Program for women who have never lifted a golf club or have been golfing for less than two years. The complete one-year, turnkey program includes everything a new female golfer needs to be successful learning, practicing and playing golf, including: - A one year annual GFG membership - A series of group golf lessons with other beginner members - Prepaid green fees at our women-friendly courses - Beginner Rules & Etiquette seminar - Welcome package - Access to a fun and rewarding learning experience According to Vancouver realtor, Lindsay Wilkinson, of Sutton Group, GFG changed her life, "I would not be a golfer today if it weren't for the GFG Beginner Program and the Nine and Dine Program at Musqueam. I'm now in my 6th year of playing the game and loving every minute of it!" GFG is affiliated with more than 60 of British Columbia's best golf courses, including Mayfair Lakes , Morgan Creek, Two Eagles Golf & Academy, Highland Pacific, Greenacres, Country Meadows, Redwoods, Black Mountain, Shannon Lake and University Golf Club (UGC). UGC has recently added new forward tees to offer a shorter course suited for new players and those with higher handicaps. "For years, University Golf Club has worked closely with groups like Golf Fore Gals to be a welcoming and user-friendly environment for all levels of women golfers," says GM Michael Mather. "With the addition of 8 new forward tee locations (4 on each nine) we feel this will only add to the enjoyable playing environment our customers have come to expect at UGC. This also falls in line with the 'play it forward' initiative, golf associations worldwide are promoting to help increase the participation and enjoyment for the female market." The longer term plan is another 6 new forward tees (3 on each nine) which will shorten the overall yardage to 4845 yards for the 2014 golf season. "Golf Fore Gals is about much more than just golf. It's also about women, community, friendship, sharing and having fun," said Diane Fru of Golf Fore Gals. "Our members not only love the game and the lifelong friendships they've made through the club, they care about giving back. Through Golf Fore Gals, they support local community charities, while enjoying the great outdoors at the most beautiful courses in BC." For more information on becoming a member of Golf Fore Gals, visit their website at: http://www.golfforegals.com.