Levelling the Fairways: Dolores Brown on inspiring change through golf

As 2024 draws to a close, we’re entering the final stretch of our Levelling the Fairways series. So far, we’ve tackled topics like misogyny, gender inequality, course design, handicaps, and golf club politics.

But this series isn’t about looking back or placing blame; it’s about sparking discussion, offering insight, and driving lasting change in the game. So, in the coming weeks, I’ll share stories from inspiring women in golf, exploring their journeys, experiences, and visions for the sport’s future.

Introducing: Dolores Brown

I played county golf with Dolores as a junior (was it really that long ago?!). Even then, her passion for the game and determination stood out.

Since earning a golf scholarship to McNeese State University and studying Sports Management, Dolores has built an impressive career. Now Head of Tournaments at Golfbreaks, she oversees major events while championing women in golf through initiatives like Golfbreaks’ Women in Golf programme and the Women in Golf Society (WIGS).

Her dedication inspires more women to pick up a club and build confidence, on and off the course. Dolores is exactly the kind of trailblazer golf needs.

How did you get started in golf, and what has your journey been like?

I’ve been playing golf since I was about five or six, but I didn’t get my first handicap until I was 12. A female member at Royal Cinque Ports entered us into a Kent knockout competition, which pushed me to get one. Growing up near Deal, I was lucky to have incredible golf facilities nearby, and my dad was instrumental in introducing me to the game. He made the golf course my second home, dragging me out in all weather.

After playing competitively as a junior, I earned a golf scholarship to McNeese State University in Louisiana, where I studied Sports Management. While I enjoyed the friendships and experiences, I didn’t take naturally to the competitive side of golf, so I focused on playing socially. I’ve kept my handicap at 2 and never aspired to play professionally.

After an internship at Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club, I started my career there as a Golf & Membership Administrator. While I enjoyed the experience, I soon realised I wanted to move beyond club operations. In 2018, I joined Golfbreaks as a Tournaments & Events Coordinator. I was promoted to Tournaments Manager in January 2022 then Senior Tournaments Manager in February 2023. Now, I’ve been my current role as Head of Tournaments since May 2024.

Do you feel you've faced any challenges as a woman in the industry?

I think getting into golf from a young age has helped me navigate some barriers before I was old enough to even notice them. I think that’s why it’s so difficult coming into the game later in life ­– the obstacles are far more obvious and take away from the enjoyment of the sport.

I’ve encountered situations where traditions have excluded women from events or opportunities. As a younger golfer and also early in my career, I didn’t feel confident challenging these norms, but I’ve learned to question and push back – tradition feels like an excuse not to change things.

Throughout my career though, I’ve also definitely found it hard to gain the respect I deserve in some situations. Having a low handicap and playing college golf has sometimes been my “superpower” in those situations, though that can also be frustrating as those skills aren’t really relevant to my role now.

Thankfully, I’ve always had really supportive friends, colleagues and mentors, particularly at Golfbreaks.

Can you tell me about initiatives at Golfbreaks or anything you’re doing individually to promote diversity and inclusion in golf?

Golfbreaks is genuinely committed to growing women’s participation in golf. They’ve put several women, including myself, through the The R&A Women in Golf Leadership Programme and are the only tour operator to sign The R&A Women in Golf Charter.

They’ve also launched an initiative which focuses on increasing female participation in golf travel and more widely in the sport in general. I’m heavily involved in that and help to organise beginner-friendly women’s events to bridge the gap between getting into golf and feeling confident on the course. I’ve recently completed a Community Golf Instructor course with England Golf to be able to help out at those events.

The events aren't aimed at making a profit, but to get women to continue their golfing journey – whatever it may be. We also have an extremely active WhatsApp community which we’re using to share women’s events run by all and allow our new golfers to meet others – which is has introduced a lot of women to new events and make new golfing friends.

Individually, I help run WIGS – the Women in Golf Society ­­– which hosts networking events for women at all stages of their golfing journeys. Our focus is on creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where women can connect and thrive in golf.

What changes or trends do you see in the future of women's golf, and how can the industry continue to support and grow the participation of women in both playing and leadership roles?

I really think women’s golf will only continue to grow, in both participation and viewership (when it’s on the television, it’s watched – stats show that!).

Even just from our events at Golbreaks, it’s clear that we’re seeing a new demographic joining the game. We’re seeing younger, working women getting into golf, which is a fantastic shift from the perception of golf as a sport for retired women.

For the industry to continue this growth though, we need more flexible memberships and facilities designed for working women and mothers. I’ve been a member of my golf club since 1999. Working full time, I’m not finding the time to play like I did. I hate the idea of giving up my membership, but equally I know I’m not really getting my money’s worth. A flexible membership would suit me so much better, and I’m sure that applies to other working women too. 

Also, initiatives like the creche at the 2024 Olympics are a great example of how we can make the game more accessible.

What advice would you give young women pursuing a career in golf?

There are so many roles within the golf industry that don’t involve playing, and I’d love to see more education around that.

When I was playing junior golf, the only real options presented to me were turning pro or not turning pro. The industry is so much more than that and there are so many more opportunities. Showcasing those opportunities could prevent a lot of talented girls and women from leaving the game.

Most importantly though, find a team or company that supports your growth and aligns with your values ­– and do not settle for anything else! Surrounding yourself with mentors, friends, and empowering women will sustain you through challenges and help you succeed. That has been crucial in my career.

If you liked this article, make sure to catch up on the rest of the Levelling the Fairways series, like this one: Busting the myth of slow play and women. And watch out for our next interview coming soon!