Golf clubs take action in response to introduction of iGolf scheme
IGOLF: Clubs have concerns about the impact the independent golfer scheme could have on their futures. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
Golf clubs in the south east and the midlands have reportedly started to take action in response to Golf Ireland's introduction of the independent golfer scheme, known as iGolf.
It allows golfers who are not a member of a club to hold an official handicap. The scheme was introduced earlier this month amid concerns from clubs about the impact it could have on their futures.
Irish Golfer magazine reports that clubs in the south east have reached an agreement that all competitions organised by clubs will be restricted to those who are members of a golf club. It's also said that subscribers to the iGolf scheme will be surcharged for casual golf, while they will be allowed play in competitions arranged by organisations other than the club.
In addition, some clubs in the south east and midlands are said to be receptive to the idea of making their courses unavailable for Golf Ireland's cups and shields competitions.
When the scheme was introduced in early October, Jane Joyce, Golf Ireland board member & chair of the independent golfer working group said:
“Our objective with iGolf and a range of other Golf Ireland initiatives is clear: to protect club membership, while fostering broader participation across diverse golfer demographics and facilitating, as appropriate, a seamless transition to club membership.
"This initiative is supported by the R&A as a way to grow the sport and bring more players into the game."
Similar schemes were already active in England, Wales, Scotland and New Zealand.
