Women’s PGA Cup 2022

I could never have envisaged my incredible experiences as PGA Captain of GB&I could continue at the second Women’s PGA Cup 2022 at Twin Warriors Golf Club.

My independent appointment as Captain of my wonderful GB&I Women’s PGA Cup Team was certainly the icing on the cake which involved all my knowledge amassed over the past 30 years as a competing Ladies European Tour Professional,  PGA Specialist Coach and just being me.

We are all aware of the saying “Perfect Preparation makes Permanent” my prep work for the Event was happening behind the scenes many months prior to our trip, which is for another article. One key was my selection of style and team uniform colours. I wanted our players to “look good” to “play great” which happened  from the first shot to the final putt.

Equipment

I knew the chance of a “winter storm” would be likely so this was taken into account with my Team worrying winter trousers were heading to Twin Warriors instead of the skorts! After the snow shower and minus 2 with wind chill on the first round all was forgiven but there was room for the Summer clothing in the baggage allowance.

Even the choice of Footjoy  shoes I selected were to accommodate fluctuating seasonal temperatures  a great hit with the team as were the sign written Titleist Golf bags the perfect style and weight.

From the moment we arrived at the hotel prior to our early flight departure to the moment we said our goodbyes every second of the day was filled with smiles and laughter. A personal gift to each team member I think surprised them at first but has become a lasting memory of the week with the most decorated cart.

 

 

 

 

 

One of the player’s asked me on the outbound flight what I was looking forward to the most of which I was quick to reply

“It will be announcing you all as my outstanding GB&I Team during my speech at the Opening Ceremony in front of the other five competing teams and officials”. I can’t wait to express the passion, determination and hard work you all have put in to be representing our Association.

Yes, the week would be competitive but the consistent message from all Team Captains followed a similar path. We all have the chance this week to demonstrate what a fantastic opportunity golf from a recreational and Professional perspective can provide on and off the course. I know I have reconnected with former Ladies European Tour players as if it were yesterday when it’s actually been 20 years ago. We have all left Albuquerque with new friends, I hasten to add it was not the rattlesnake which crossed my path whizzing back to watch one of my other player’s.

Exciting Format

Yes, we played ourselves brilliantly into contention at the second Women’s PGA but as we know in golf anything can happen. The outstanding back 9’s from Canada and USA just pipped us but wow it was exciting. The format lends itself to big swings within minutes with the scoreboard a snap chat in time. I must admit the volunteer scorers were certainly kept busy and warm. I received messages from supporters back home saying they couldn’t take their eyes off the computer! I would suggest this has really helped elevate the interest in Women’s Golf and golf in the UK and within the PGA.

The organisation from the PGA of America was superb as was the hospitality provided by our friends at Twin Warriors Golf Club, a breathtaking venue. I can’t Thank you all enough for your hard work those sunrises and sunsets will live with me forever.

 

 

 

 

 

The beauty of Twin Warriors

I am absolutely convinced the Womens PGA Cup will grow from strength to strength so roll on 2024 who would not want to be a part of it?

I am immensely proud of how the team played all week handling their disappointment in such a Professional manner, they all performed courageously it certainly bought a tear or two to my eye. We were the ultimate Team and like a quality adhesive we became stronger over time.

I was so privileged to have been asked to Captain our PGA GB&I representation and will still reminisce over the private team moments which remain close to our hearts.

The cohesion we built up could only have been dreamed about but I know this special week will live on in the memories of every single player. I was just saddened I could not lead them over the finish line as everyone played their hearts out and contributed so much both on and off the course.

We left happy with the knowledge our permanent friendship and continued support was the true winner at the Warriors, You are all amazing!

Thanks to our sponsors:  Glenmuir, Footjoy and Titleist and the PGA