Martine and Heather Gilks will make history at Woburn this month as the first mother and daughter duo to compete in The G4D Open.
The East Midlands pair, who play out of Coventry Golf Club, are participating in the Championship for the first time and are hugely excited at the prospect.
“When I got the email from The R&A, I intermittently screamed and cried,” says Martine. “I hoped Heather would get in, and I was astonished that I did too. I am absolutely delighted to be playing.”
Martine, 54, who has osteoarthritis in all her joints, has been playing golf since 2010. Playing to a Handicap Index of 18, she feels her game should be well suited to the Duchess Course at Woburn.
“When I first started and I was an able-bodied golfer, I could hit the ball a long way, but my short game was atrocious,” she says. “Now I’m laid up on crutches, I practice my putting lots and my short game is now good, but I can’t hit the ball very far. I hit it straight though so the tree-lined fairways at Woburn should give me an advantage.”
Golf perfect for Heather
Heather, 18, who is in her first year studying law, plays to a six Handicap Index. Heather has cerebral palsy and golf has been an important part of her physio programme in recent years.
“Heather’s cerebral palsy affects her legs and her left side, her left arm,” says Martine. “It’s important that physio is part of her daily routine and golf is perfect for that.”
Martine and Heather were unable to participate in The G4D Open last year and are thrilled to have the chance to make their debuts in 2024.
“Last year when The G4D Open was first held, I was captain of the ladies’ section at Coventry,” continues Martine.
Heather was junior captain and doing her A-levels, so we were both a bit snowed under. Several of our friends played though and said what an amazing experience it was. So, this year, we both had the opportunity to enter and we went for it.”