Photography by Kelsey Grudle :: By Debbie Pepper
Ladies’ golf programs at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch are in “full swing,” with everything from golf fitness instruction, clinics and a CWGA calendar full of golf events for women. Most importantly, there has never been a better time to get acquainted or re-acquainted with the game of golf, especially for the great health benefits.
Nancy Berkley, golf author, founder and president of Berkley Consulting and expert in women’s golf, specifically in attracting and retaining women in the game, has much to say on this subject. Why not adopt Nancy’s philosophy she so aptly trademarks in her golf section for Cybergolf.com…. BE HAPPY, BE HEALTHY. LIVE LONGER, PLAY GOLF.
Nancy’s message to women:
“Did you know that studies have shown that women who play golf live longer? Think about it: Golf is a mind-body exercise (the best kind) as well as providing the physical exercise of walking even when using a cart. Playing golf helps women maintain balance, flexibility and posture. Need proof: Look at the women playing golf at your club. Aren’t there some amazing 80-year and 90-year-old women? Further evidence: Read “Brain, Heal Thyself” in the February 6, 2015 issue of the Wall Street Journal. Walking two miles a day has shown in studies to prevent dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease.”
Additionally, industry trends state that one third of all new golfers are women, and equipment manufacturers and golf apparel companies are taking notice with new equipment innovations and stylish apparel lines.
CHICKS & STICKS
Are you new to golf, haven’t played in a while or are new to The Club and community and want to meet other women interested in golf? Then Chick & Sticks is for you!
In 2012 I created the program to fill the need for new members to meet other members in a social, non-competitive environment by introducing them to the game of golf. As a growing and thriving Club, many members were moving in from around the state and country to enjoy the beautiful Texas Hill Country and our exceptional championship golf course at Cordillera Ranch. Working with Director of Golf Marc DeWall, the Chicks & Sticks program began as “a little bit of golf and a lot of happy hour.” The goal was to attract beginning golfers, golfers who haven’t played in a while and were ready to play again and those simply wanting social camaraderie accompanied by a little golf. And it worked….the ladies came, they played, they socialized and made friends for life!
Clinics are one hour and fifteen minutes with one to three pros teaching the group, depending on the level and numbers in attendance, followed by a happy hour. As the program has continued to grow and develop, there are now two groups — one for beginners and another for advanced beginners to intermediate. Our beginners have developed into two segments – “the four-holers” who quickly advance to the “nine-hole” group. Many of our original nine-hole group now feel comfortable playing 18 holes and have joined the CWGA. But the most exciting part is that many of our ladies who started in the program had only a slight interest in ever really playing golf but are now hooked on the game! Our number of ladies playing golf is increasing by leaps and bounds.
CORDILLERA WOMENS GOLF ASSOCIATION (CWGA)
Joining CWGA allows you to participate in a weekly Wednesday play day and all tournaments, and learn more about the game of golf such as rules, golf etiquette and different games. Plus, members can win awards, make new friends and most importantly, have fun!
The season begins in January and lasts through the end of November. Tournaments not to be missed are our Fiesta Tournament in April and Member-Guest Ranch Round-Up held annually in May. This year’s first Mardi Gras Tournament in March was a special highlight with decorated Mardi Gras cart floats.
Debbie Pepper is the Director of Membership at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. She can be reached at dpepper@cordilleraranch.com or 830.336.3544.
