The fifth annual Women in Sport Scramble delivered another strong statement of intent around growing female participation in golf, as players of all experience levels gathered at the K Club for a day that blended sport, laughter, friendship and social connection across multiple sports.

The event has become a cornerstone of Golf Ireland’s participation calendar, with this year’s edition continuing to attract newcomers willing to step outside their comfort zone and try the game in a relaxed, supportive environment.

It came from an initial idea from RTÉ Sunday Game presenter Jacqui Hurley and she remains a core part of the fun on the day, traversing the course in her buggy, getting to chat with all of the players and posting reels to her Instagram account like the most committed influencer.

A defining feature of the Scramble is its emphasis on accessibility. Many of those in attendance were experiencing golf for the first time, reinforcing the importance of creating entry points that prioritise enjoyment over performance.

That approach was reflected in the atmosphere throughout the day, with participants encouraged to learn, and engage with the sport at their own pace. The slower the pace the louder the peals of laughter but everyone, well most, will have connected with at least one good shot and discovered the feeling that comes from the sport and why so many become beholden to its charms.

I had the pleasure of playing with Golf ireland President Fiona Delargy and Olympic Federation of Ireland Secretary Sarah O’Shea, who will definitely be making waves on the course having completed a classy up and down that Leona Maguire or Lauren Walsh would have been proud off

The success of the event also relied on strong collaboration behind the scenes, with Sinead McHugh and the Golf Ireland team, and the K Club playing a central role in delivery, alongside support from Golf Ireland partners AIG.

Recognising Performance and Participation

While participation was the primary focus, there was still room for a little competitive spirit on the course.

The winning team of Danielle McVeigh, Gemma Begley, Meghan Scully and Laura Guest topped the leaderboard, with additional recognition for standout individual performances in the longest drive and nearest the pin competitions. They will now get to do it all over again with a team entry in the Pro-Am at the KPMG Women’s irish Open, taking place on the same course on August 26th, courtesy of the team at ForeFront Sports.

Extending Impact Beyond the Course

The event also demonstrated the wider social value of golf, with attendees contributing to three charity partners: Special Olympics Ireland, Samaritans Ireland and Play in Pink.

Importantly, the Scramble is positioned not as a one-off experience, but as the start of a longer journey in golf.

Programmes such as Chip & Chat, Get into Golf, and the iGolf membership offer provide clear next steps for those inspired to continue, whether through social play, structured learning or more formal participation.

This pathway approach is critical in converting interest into sustained engagement, one of the ongoing challenges in sports development.

A Platform for Growth

Now in its fifth year, the Women in Sport Scramble continues to evolve as both an event and a participation driver.

Its success lies in its simplicity: lowering barriers, creating a welcoming environment, and providing tangible routes into the sport.

With strong partner backing and a clear focus on inclusion, it is well positioned to remain a key part of efforts to grow the women’s game in Ireland in the years ahead.

 

 

Image Credit: Golf Ireland and Inpho.ie

 

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