Muslim women took to the golf course as part of a ground breaking new coaching programme launched by the Muslim Golf Association and love.golf.
The introductory experience at Stonebridge Golf Club near Coventry – specially designed with Muslim women in mind – sold out within 12 hours and attracted 25 women and a waiting list of more than 40.
Participants were invited to wear traditional clothing and took to the golf course for their very first taste of the game led by PGA Professional Hannah Crump, who hosted a fun-filled 90-minute love.golf experience.
Fahra Bhatti, one of the participants, said: “Today was phenomenal. It totally exceeded expectations and everyone is absolutely buzzing from the session.
“If you’d told me a year ago I would be playing golf, I wouldn’t have believed you, but here I am. I absolutely loved it and the atmosphere was so fun, encouraging and supportive. I have always thought of golf as a sport for white, middle-class men, but today has shown me that it’s not and anyone can enjoy it.”
Commenting on the historic day, Amir Malik, CEO of the Muslim Golf Association, said: “I’ve been inundated with messages from the women who took part. They thoroughly enjoyed their experience and are eager to continue.
“The level of take-up for the day was unprecedented. It’s triggered enquiries from all corners of the UK and now we want to take the experience to as many Muslim women as possible.”
Alastair Spink, founder of love.golf, added: “The day has demonstrated the power of making people feel welcome in an environment they would not typically expect to be.
“We’re all incredibly buoyed by the success of the day and excited about the potential to bring this experience to many more Muslim women.”
Following the success of the event at Stonebridge, plans are currently being put in place for more taster days in select UK cities.