British Senior Women’s Amateur Championship

Celebrating the enduring spirit of competitive golf and lifelong friendship among women

Founding and Early Years

The British Senior Women’s Amateur Championship was established in 1981 under the stewardship of the Ladies’ Golf Union (LGU). It arose from a growing recognition that women’s golf didn’t stop at mid-amateur or county level — that the love of the game, the will to compete, and the camaraderie forged on the fairways continued well beyond the age of 50.

Inspired by the success of senior men’s events and the strength of local and national veteran ladies’ associations across Britain, the LGU created a national championship for senior women that would celebrate both competitive excellence and lifelong participation.

The inaugural championship took place at Southerness Golf Club in Scotland, a fitting coastal venue with firm links and wide horizons — symbolic of a new beginning for senior women’s golf. From the outset, it attracted many of the finest players from across the Home Nations: county champions, Curtis Cup veterans, and passionate club golfers united by friendship and a shared love of competition.

A Championship of Friendship and Fierce Competition

Over the decades, the championship has become one of the most respected events on the women’s amateur calendar. Its roll of honour reads like a who’s who of British women’s golf: Eileen Boothby, Angela Uzielli, Brenda King, Christine Quinn, and many more who have defined the senior game.

While the standard of play has always been high, the event’s defining spirit has been its belonging. Senior women have long spoken of the camaraderie that transcends counties and countries — the post-round conversations, the shared laughter, and the recognition that golf remains a lifelong teacher of patience, courage, and joy.

The format, traditionally stroke play qualifying followed by match play, has preserved the challenge and drama of championship golf while fostering enduring friendships between competitors from across Great Britain and Ireland.

Transitions and Modern Era

Following the merger of the LGU with The R&A in 2017, the championship came under the R&A’s stewardship, ensuring its continued growth and prestige. The R&A has upheld the event’s traditions while enhancing opportunities for senior women to compete internationally and within a modernised structure of women’s amateur golf.

Recent championships have showcased the evolving strength and depth of senior women’s golf, with fields featuring former internationals, lifelong amateurs, and new entrants discovering senior competition for the first time. The standard of play remains remarkably high, reflecting the dedication of women who have devoted their lives to the sport.

Legacy and Impact

More than four decades on, the British Senior Women’s Amateur Championship stands as a testament to the lifelong nature of golf. It honours not only the achievements of its champions but also the wider community of senior women who sustain the game through leadership, mentorship, and friendship.

Many senior golfers continue to serve as captains, county officials, coaches, and volunteers, shaping the game for future generations. Their presence at this championship each year reinforces a simple truth: golf offers belonging, purpose, and connection at every stage of life.

In celebrating the British Senior Women’s Amateur, we celebrate the wisdom of experience, the joy of competition, and the legacy of women who continue to build the game together.

🕰️ Timeline: British Senior Women’s Amateur Championship

Notable Champions

Angela Uzielli (England)

A name synonymous with senior women’s golf, Angela Uzielli was a force of nature both in skill and spirit. A multiple winner of the British Senior Women’s Amateur Championship, she combined grace and power with fierce determination. Beyond her victories, Angela was admired for her mentorship and kindness — qualities that made her a beloved figure among her peers. Her success inspired a generation of senior women to embrace competitive golf with pride and joy.

Eileen Boothby (Scotland)

Among the early champions who shaped the event’s identity, Eileen Boothby represented Scotland with elegance and quiet resolve. Her consistency and sportsmanship in the 1980s helped define the championship’s reputation for high-quality golf and genuine friendship.

Brenda King (England)

Champion golfer and tireless advocate for senior women’s golf, Brenda King was the first English Senior Women’s Champion and a passionate volunteer long after her competitive peak. The Brenda King Foursomes, named in her honour, continues her legacy — embodying her belief that golf is not only about winning, but about belonging. Her influence is deeply woven into the history of senior women’s golf in Britain.

Christine Quinn (Ireland)

Representing Ireland, Christine Quinn brought international strength to the championship in the modern era. Her success underscored the event’s inclusive reach across the Home Nations and her sportsmanship reflected the unity and camaraderie that define senior women’s golf.

Legacy of Champions

Each of these women — and countless others — have carried the torch for senior women’s golf, ensuring that the British Senior Women’s Amateur remains more than a tournament. It is a living tradition that connects players through time, friendship, and shared passion for the game.

✨ Summary

Over more than four decades, the British Senior Women’s Amateur Championship has:

• Elevated senior women’s golf to national and international prominence.

• Created enduring traditions of competition, belonging, and respect.

• Celebrated champions whose impact extends far beyond the course — from Angela Uzielli to Brenda King, and from Jackie Foster to Nadene Gole.

It stands today as one of the most meaningful championships in women’s golf — a celebration of lifelong participation, community, and excellence.