ATHOL — Thirty experienced female golfers from clubs around the state hit the links at the sunny Ellinwood Country Club Thursday morning for the final stop in the Massachsuetts Golf Womens Spring Cup Matches. The season began April 27.
“We are in the 19th cup and are hosting five other clubs today, from Ludlow, Springfield, Nabnasset, Juniper Hill, and the International Golf Club from Bolton,” said Bonnie Stewart of Athol. “Today there are 750 women playing golf throughout the state in the cup matches. It used to be the Women’s Golf Association of Massachusetts but that has been combined with the Mass. Golf Association.
Ellinwood is located at 1928 Pleasant St. It opened with nine holes in 1929, and expanded to an 18-hole facility in 1965.
“There are 25 cups,” said Mary Harris, captain of the Ellinwood Country Club’s women’s team, said, “This is our fifth match.”
Said Stewart, “It’s fun. We go out in twosomes and we have a lot of fun playing. There’s a lot of camaraderie. That’s basically what it’s all about.”
She noted the winning team members receive pins.
Susan Sheehan of Sudbury, captain of the International team agreed, “It’s been wonderful. It’s a great opportunity to meet wonderful people.”
Sharon Reilly, temporary captain of the Nabnassett Country Club team from Westford said, “It’s been a great season. We’ve really lucked out with the weather.
Most of the women (some were out practicing) gathered for a group photo before climbing onto their carts and headed out to begin the day of friendly competition and fun.
Ellinwood finished in fourth place. The Spring Cup was won by Juniper Hills.