A queen and a princess!

Golf really is a game for all ages and at Queensbury Golf Club there is living proof of that. January saw the club celebrate two of its members’ birthdays, with just a ‘small’ margin of 83 years between them. While little Charlotte Hird had already been spotted as an emerging talent at county level – she only turned seven on January 10 – the ‘queen’ of Queensbury, Pat Holcroft, a club member for 71 years, turned 90 on January 6. Not only is Pat still playing golf, she is still winning. Her latest trophy was this past year in the Dora Ingham Trophy which the club plays for charity and this year was played as a mixed greensome. The ladies section held a party for Pat at the club and her family organised a surprise party for her on the Sunday. It really was a surprise as Pat was blindfolded on her way to the venue and is still getting over her party weekend. During her 71 years at the club Pat has seen the whole of the course layout change. She was at the opening of the function room extension in April 1965 and celebrated a few New Year’s parties including winning the fancy dress one year as ‘Dusty Bin’. She used to catch the bus in order to play (before she could drive) and her love of the game has seen her reach a very respectable 16-handicap at one stage. She was Lady Captain twice, in 1971 and 1972 and Lady President in 1989. She has also been handicap secretary and played in many a team match over the years – most recently winning her team matches at Fixby, Skipton and Keighley just a few years ago. Pat has had two holes in ones, both at Queensbury on the 3rd and 6th holes. Lady Captain Linda Marshall said of the pair: “Whilst Pat remains our club’s inspiration, little Charlotte Hird is our pride and joy. We see her many days with her dad, Simon, racing up and down the fairways with a swing we all envy. “The best thing about watching Charlotte play – apart from her demon chipping – is the smile she always has on her face.” Charlotte started golfing at five-years-old when she joined Queensbury. She then also joined Huddersfield Golf Club where she receives coaching from the professional, Alex Keighley. Charlotte has been playing in competitions in both the Northern Junior tour and YLCGA – and even got a mention at the YLCGA AGM in November. At the tender age of six she was chosen for Regular Promising Beginner training with YLCGA and has a lot to look forward to in the upcoming season. Lady Captain Linda added: “All at Queensbury Golf Club wish both Pat and Charlotte a Happy Birthday and a great year’s golfing in 2023.” And so say all of us!