Women’s Golf Day: A celebration and catalyst for change

“Women’s Golf Day is a global event celebrating girls and women playing golf and learning skills that last a lifetime.”

Women’s Golf Day – or WGD – is a global, week-long event designed to introduce women and girls to golf, promote female participation in the sport, and create lasting engagement. Held annually, it features a range of activities from beginner lessons to social gatherings, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.

It’s supported by The R&A, USGA, Callaway Golf, PGA and other organisations, federations, governing bodies and industry leaders.

Since its inception in 2016, Women’s Golf Day has expanded to over 80 countries, demonstrating its broad appeal and impact. Now, with events having taken place at more than 1,300 locations globally, the annual celebration is the fastest-growing female golf development initiative in the world.

Impact on women's participation in golf

WGD has introduced thousands of women to the game and has significantly boosted female engagement in golf. But with a dedicated, year-round platform, it also serves as a networking opportunity. By connecting women with each other and with local clubs, WGD helps to sustain their interest and involvement in the sport beyond just the initial event.

And efforts are underway to ensure that WGD continues to have a lasting impact. Initiatives include ongoing educational programmes, regular follow-up events, and partnerships with golf clubs and governing bodies. These measures aim to maintain the momentum generated by WGD and support continued growth in female golf participation.

Support for Women’s Golf Day from clubs in the UK

While many clubs embrace WGD enthusiastically, there is room for improvement, particularly in the UK.

It’s quite clear that some clubs use WGD as a marketing opportunity, without making the long-term changes required to genuinely support and encourage women and girls in the game. Gender equality and driving female participation in golf needs to be a continuous effort. And one-off, token gestures won’t work.

Despite these challenges, Women’s Golf Day remains an important platform for growing the women’s game, and it’s clearly made commendable strides in increasing female participation in golf.

To ensure this progress continues, it is crucial for golf clubs, especially in the UK, to take the initiative seriously and implement strategies that support women's ongoing engagement with the sport. By doing so, WGD can transform from a one-day event into a catalyst for long-term change in the golfing world.

For more information, visit womensgolfday.com.

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