Royal Troon widely praised for admitting women
Royal Troon Golf Club has received widespread praise for its decision to admit women – just two weeks before it hosts the Open Championship.
The reaction is in stark contrast to the ridicule and condemnation Muirfield received in May when it voted to continue its ban on women becoming members of the golf club.
Royal Troon was the only remaining host club to maintain a male-only membership policy after governing body The R&A removed Muirfield from the rota following that vote, which may now be overturned before the end of the year.
A review of its membership policy was announced by Troon in January last year and was initially not due to be resolved until later this year.
However, the Ayrshire club brought forward its vote to before this year’s Open, taking place between July 14 and 17.
The club said its members voted “overwhelmingly” in favour of admitting women after a consultation found support among three-quarters of those who participated in the club’s survey.
Club captain Martin Cheyne said: “We have said a number of times recently that it is important for golf clubs to reflect the society in which we exist and the modern world that looks to us.
“Therefore, I am delighted with the decision taken by members of Royal Troon and look forward to welcoming women to our great club.
“It is the right decision for the club today, and for the generations of golfers that will follow.”
Royal Troon trended on Twitter on Friday night with most people praising the golf club.
Scotland’s first minister Nicola Sturgeon said it was a victory for equality and common sense.
Ruth Holdaway, chief executive of Women in Sport, said it was the right decision, but added that it is shocking that it is still an issue in 2016.
Other golf fans congratulated the club and said they were now looking forward to the Open Championship.
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