This weekend, ALCGA officials, selector Laura, the County team, caddies and supporters should be out on the beautiful links at Monifieth where this year’s Northern Division Inter-County Jamboree should be taking place. We should be meeting friends old and new, the opposition from Angus, Northern Counties and Perth & Kinross, for the customary fiercely competitive event and our regional qualifier for the Scottish County Finals. It goes without saying that we will miss the golfing challenge but we will also miss the social get together and team camaraderie.
Of course, this County team event is not the only Covid casualty to date. We have all missed the ALCGA Opens at Ballater, Aboyne, Banchory, Fraserburgh, and Westhill, the County Championship at Meldrum House, and the Watt Duffus Trophy at Newburgh-on-Ythan – 41% of our annual fixtures in Aberdeenshire! It’s my aspiration to organise next year’s events at the venues that had to be cancelled this year, particularly because we were looking forward to visiting clubs and courses that have been absent from our itinerary for some time and others that are favourites.
During lockdown, I’ve been delighted that so many of the County Team Squad have kept in touch with me, giving me the chance to get to know the girls a little better and learn things that I didn’t know before. I already shared some of these in earlier ‘Keeping in Touch’ posts. Here are a few more ...
Fiona (Pennie) has worked in the police for 22 years – I can’t believe she’s old enough for that – now in Detective Training. When I talk about the police I’m minded to thank again all ALCGA ladies who are key workers in essential services and who continue to support and look after us all.
Gillian (MacKenzie) has decided to change career and is leaving her Christian youth leader role in July. She has no specific future plans but I’m confident that she will be guided to something that will be just right for her. Best wishes, Gillian.
Hannah (Bycroft) who lives on her own in a flat without a garden and is working from home said she would “definitely appreciate getting out on the course a lot more once this is over”. I think we all agree with you on that one, Hannah.
Rachel (Mathieson) was devastated to miss out on her SQA exams – understandable given her hard work, her motivation to do well and her desire to demonstrate her best achievements.
Robyn (Fowlie) has been driving – with her golf club not a vehicle – in the field adjacent to her house. Also, she is a talented pianist studying at Higher Grade level. I think I’ve found a leader for a County piano quartet – Robyn, Karen, Susie, Laura!
Sheena (Wood) has friends far and wide due to her successful golfing career during which she represented Scotland from 1999 till 2001 and Scottish Seniors since 2013. During lockdown, she has been developing her green fingers, growing flowers and vegetables. How did your garden grow, Sheena?
Vicki (Thom) finished maternity leave during lockdown and went back to work part-time. To quote her: “So between Corran [her one year old little boy], work, cooking, keeping on top of the house and getting our daily exercise in, the days seem to pass quickly with the routine we have going. We’re doing a 5k run with the buggy almost every other day for a quick blast of exercise while working. I’m still doing some weights in the garden for a workout when I’ve time! Filling a rucksack with books as I don’t have any weights at home! It’s very effective for squats and lunges and even kettlebell swings using the handle!” I’m exhausted just thinking about it, Vicki!
I’ve also been keeping in touch with most recent past Captain, Ann (Smart). I’m very disappointed to tell you that her chemotherapy treatment to date has not been totally effective against the lymphoma and, consequently, she has to have further treatment that will be specified soon. Given lockdown, social distancing, and isolation, Ann has faced an especially arduous time. Her attitude is always inspiring. I know that you will all join with me in sending her our very best wishes through the next stage of her journey to recovery.
Since I mentioned her in my ‘Keeping in Touch - 26 April 2020’ post, Kimberley (Beveridge) emailed me with an update on the start of her professional career, telling me that her tour fixtures have not been cancelled and that the aim is to reschedule some later in the year. She has her fingers crossed that she may get 2 or 3 competitions. Our fingers are crossed for you too, Kimbo. Please keep us posted.
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Hopefully the weather is going to perk up again soon and, along with some further easing of lockdown restrictions, our spirits will be raised as we move through the summer months. It’s great to be outdoors for fresh air and recreation but I’m really looking forward to some more normal socialising at home with family and friends.
Also I’m still looking forward to reading some of your ‘golf comeback’ stories or seeing your photos. Please email me at Lorna200LMJ@btinternet.com or message me on 07717 133397.
In the meantime, enjoy golf, make the most of the current new normality, stay well, and keep safe.
Lorna
Lorna M Johnson
Captain, ALCGA