Golfers from across Oxfordshire gathered at Oxford Golf Club last week to celebrate a remarkable milestone for one of the city’s historic sporting institutions – the 125th anniversary of Oxford Ladies Golf Club.
In a nod to the club’s Edwardian origins, members swapped modern kit for period dress and traditional wooden clubs, recreating the atmosphere of early 20th-century golf when the club was first established in 1901, just weeks after the death of Queen Victoria.
The commemorative event forms part of a year-long programme of celebrations recognising the club’s heritage and its ongoing role in promoting women’s participation in golf across the region.
Founded at a time when opportunities for female athletes were limited, the club has long positioned itself as a pioneer in making the sport more accessible.
Today, that legacy continues through its Ladies Academy initiative, which has played a key role in increasing female participation. The structured programme, designed by Head PGA Professional Joe Pepperell, offers three progressive levels that support newcomers from first-time players through to full club membership.
Club officials say the academy, introduced following the pandemic, has helped challenge outdated perceptions of golf as an exclusive or age-restricted sport, instead highlighting its social, physical and mental health benefits.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, members also raised funds for the club’s chosen charity, Rose Hill Junior Youth Club, which provides support and activities for children and families in the local community.
Speaking at the event, joint secretary Linda Halsey reflected on the significance of the milestone, describing it as a moment of pride for the club and its members. She highlighted the importance of its historical role in advancing women’s sport and its continued commitment to inclusivity and growth.
A further “Celebration Club Day” is scheduled for June, when former members will return to reunite and mark the occasion as part of the wider anniversary programme.
With 125 years behind it and a renewed focus on accessibility, Oxford Ladies Golf Club is using its milestone year not only to reflect on its past, but to look ahead to the next generation of women taking up the game.
Linda Halsey, joint secretary at Oxford Ladies Golf Club, said: “This is a milestone moment for our club
“We can be incredibly proud of our history, and that golf was an early instigator in making sport accessible to women when – at the time of our club’s creation – opportunities were previously limited.
“We have a year of events planned to mark the occasion and celebrate our club’s history and the positive impact it has had on women’s golf.”
