Let's grow the game of golf – Yaa Nyarko
The immediate past Ladies' Captain of the Royal Golf Club in Kumasi has called on authorities of golf in the country to think of innovative marketing ideas that can attract and retain golfers.
Ms Christine Yaa Nyarko believes that efforts to attract more patrons especially younger members for golf can be thwarted if authorities continue to do same things in the same way all the time.
“We need to be flexible in our attempt to attract more people to the game; by adopting financial incentives, open golf day for the public and other spontaneous means to draw potential golf enthusiasts to the game.” She explained to The Golfer newspaper in a telephone interview.
She said: “Every golfer needs to be an ambassador for golf; in the offices, at the banks, churches and on the market.”
She however advised that, when clubs succeeded to enroll young golfers, they must keenly mentor them by way of pairing up longtime member families with new entrants to help them feel comfortable and excited about the process.
She called on the government and other private enterprises to support golf and keep the vibrancy of the game. She noted that, “without the necessary infrastructure and monetary support, the current situation undoubtedly paints a grim picture of the game”, she cautioned that the clubs must do the right things to avert possible embarrassment during the next Olympic Games in 2016.
“Yes, we may be excited about golf and the 2016 Olympic Games but we need a formidable team to make a mark during the event,” Yaa Nyarko cautioned, adding: “Our professional side must avail themselves to external competitions, with our golf academics being more active and authorities showing immense interest in how we do things.”
Recounting some of her experiences as Ladies' Captain of the celebrated Royal Golf Club, she said: “I had a fantastic term in office, during which I had lots of laughs, made wonderful new friends and learned a lot about myself and others along the way,” emphasizing that “It has been a privilege to lead brilliant ladies section and I am happy I played the expected role in the golf club.”
The immediate past Ladies' Captain capped a remarkable term with the Ladies' Captain Prize that took place barely two months ago.
The occasion was laced with lots of fun, great golfing and golfers obviously thrilled to be part of a grand occasion.
Below are photos from some of the scenes. Enjoy!
Collins Oppong
The Golfer newspaper