When West Kilbride Golf Club assistant professional Linzi Dye went to her friend’s hen do late in 2021 golf was probably the last thing on her mind.
But a lightbulb moment that inspired a memorable Christmas scramble event – including silent disco and karaoke – has teed Linzi up for a fine 2022 as she continues to introduce beginners to the wonders of golf.
“Because my numbers are starting to grow I thought we could have a bit of a party night to close out 2021,” Linzi told love.golf.
“I thought what can I do to make this a bit different? I was actually at a hen do a couple of weeks before and they had a silent disco in my friend’s Mum’s house. I said ‘Ah I’ve not been to one of these since I was at uni!’ It was so much fun.
“I thought it would be brilliant for love.golf – it grew arms and legs from there. There was the option to tag on karaoke as well.
“People are still talking about it now at the sessions, chatting about how good a night it was. What I want now is for the people in these groups to be on WhatsApp and say to each other ‘I fancy six holes tonight, anyone free?’ It’s about encouraging people to play a bit more.”
For now Linzi is braving the elements with her three Sunday groups in biting winds as well as running multiple taster sessions and coaching juniors.
Linzi is hopeful her Friday night scramble will grow too in 2022 as the weather warms up and she’s planning a trip to the nearby Dundonald Links for the July 28-31 Women’s Scottish Open – the week before Muirfield hosts the AIG Women’s Open.
Pre-pandemic Linzi took seven players to Arran on a prosecco tour and then last year for the Xmas scramble nearly 30 women attended.
“There’s definitely a good buzz around love.golf and there’s more interest in the professional game too,” she said.
