Tee Time

In 2005, a professionally diverse group of golf-loving women founded the LPGA Amateurs Golf Association Cape Fear/Wilmington Chapter. The chapter, which serves Onslow, Pender, New Hanover, Bladen, and Brunswick counties, has become a vibrant community: Twenty years later, it now boasts 151 members, marking its largest membership yet.

The chapter’s history is closely tied to ELLEN GREGORY, who moved to Wilmington in 2004 and had been a member of the LPGA Amateurs (then called EWGA) in Cincinnati, Ohio, since 1999. Gregory saw an opportunity to start a chapter locally, which she helped officially launch on March 18, 2005. She served as its first president. Now, she is the chair of the events committee, continuing to play an instrumental role in the organization’s growth. “It’s about making friends and enjoying a sport that you love,” Gregory says.

LPGA Amateurs offers a range of benefits to its members, including access to participating local courses, discounted golf equipment, apparel, and travel, as well as free tickets to select LPGA events. Additionally, the organization provides exclusive outings, clinics, lessons, and group trips. A standout feature is the ability to participate in national multi-chapter events and championships, and members can play golf at participating courses across the country.

LINDA CASE, the chapter’s current president, joined the LPGA Amateurs in 2011 after relocating to the area.

“When I first moved here, I didn’t know anyone,” Case says. “I played golf and was paired with someone who was a member. She told me about the chapter, and I joined to meet people. The rest is history.”

Case emphasizes that the community aspect is what draws many women to the chapter, from young professionals to active military members and retirees. The chapter fosters a range of friendships and mentorship opportunities.

The chapter’s membership has grown steadily over the years, with a recent surge from Brunswick County. PATRICIA FAULKNER, a member of the membership committee, sees this as a reflection of the area’s demographic shift.

“Brunswick County is growing, and people are seeking ways to get involved,” Faulkner says. “For women like me, it’s the perfect way to meet people while enjoying golf.”

The rising cost of golf and the diminishing number of courses has proved challenging for local golfers. LPGA Amateurs has built strong relationships with local courses to secure tee times.

“We book early and ensure our numbers are accurate,” Case says. “We’ve learned to be good partners with the courses.” 

The organization’s appeal extends to women of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to seasoned golfers.

“You don’t have to be good to join,” Gregory assures potential members. “LPGA Amateurs helps women get on the course the right way, teaching etiquette and pace of play.”

Looking forward, the Cape Fear/Wilmington chapter has ambitious goals. Case highlights the desire to expand membership even further and increase community involvement. The chapter is active in supporting initiatives like Girls Golf, an organization that uses the game to teach life skills to children. The group’s annual events, like the women’s trip to Pawley’s Island, South Carolina, keep the community engaged and growing.

As the chapter celebrates its twentieth anniversary this year, Gregory and her fellow members are excited to reflect on their journey while looking ahead to new opportunities. Membership, she says, is a win-win.

“Joining our chapter,” Gregory says, “is a good way to get into the game, meet new people – and without investing a ton of money.”

To view more of photographer Aris Harding’s work, go to arisharding.com.

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