SGU to hold research focus groups

The SGU is targeting golfers who are not members of golf clubs to take part in a series of research focus groups it is holding next month.

The organisation is staging the events across the country with a view to establishing the future shape of golf clubs.

At the start of what promises to be a momentous year for Scottish golf, with the return of the Ryder Cup in September, the SGU is keen to help put its member clubs in the best possible position to capitalise on the many benefits that an such an event can bring.

It is also keen to help identify and solve the many issues facing clubs in terms of membership and participation rates, particularly following the recent closures of two Edinburgh-based clubs, Lothianburn and Torphin Hill.

A mixture of people are being sought for the 90-minute events, particularly those who have previously been members of a club and golfers who play regularly but who have never joined a club.

The SGU evenings will last around 90 minutes, with refreshments and a small golfing gift being offered to all participants.

The events will take place at the following times and places:

• Edinburgh – Swanston New GC (pictured), February 3, 6.30pm – current golf club members

• Edinburgh – Swanston New GC, February 3, 8.15pm – golfers not attached to a club

• Glasgow – Bothwell Castle C, February 4, 6.30pm – current golf club members

• Glasgow – Bothwell Castle C, February 4, 8.15pm – golfers not attached to a club

• Aberdeen – Murcar Links GC – February 6, 6.30pm – current golf club members

• Aberdeen – Murcar Links GC – February 6, 6.30pm – golfers not attached to a club

Although the research groups are taking place in specific clubhouses in each area, you do not necessarily need to be a member of that club to attend.

SGU Research Focus Groups: More information

If you are interested in finding out more, please fill out a quick, online survey, which will help the SGU gather some profiling information. Click here to find out more.

Michael McEwan is the Deputy Editor of bunkered and has been part of the team since 2004. In that time, he has interviewed almost every major figure within the sport, from Jack Nicklaus, to Rory McIlroy, to Donald Trump. The host of the multi award-winning bunkered Podcast and a member of Balfron Golfing Society, Michael is the author of three books and is the 2023 PPA Scotland 'Writer of the Year' and 'Columnist of the Year'. Dislikes white belts, yellow balls and iron headcovers. Likes being drawn out of the media ballot to play Augusta National.

Deputy Editor