Incoming Captain 2016 Address 19/04/2016

 

Fortwilliam GC is the oldest golf club in Belfast 125 years young this year, and I am delighted and privileged to be Captain of this great golf club for this celebratory year. I wish to thank the immediate past Captain Jim Mc Donnell for nominating me for this prestigious post. 
  
Jim and I worked closely last year to establish positive communication in all sections of our club, hopefully we made some progress in this regard and it is up to the new ladies Captain Maeve Mc Cann and me to continue this good work. 
  
Jim was part of the finance committee that conducted and overseen our emergency turnaround plan; tough choices had to be made and we are now seeing the positive results from that strategy. We are about to enter our third year of this plan and continued tough times lie ahead but if our members, their guests and families frequent the club more often we will be in a more positive position moving forward.

   

Many people ensure the smooth operation of this great club, the Honorary Secretary Michael Graham, Honorary Treasurer Mal Toner the Convenors and their committees. The Course Manager Jason Podris supervises the upkeep of our wonderful golf course along with his hard working team.

 

The social aspect of Fortwilliam is the envy of most clubs in Ireland, we have a vibrant social programme, a well-stocked bar and fabulous comfortable lounges with amazing views of the Cavehill and Greater Belfast. I encourage members and visitors alike to take a moment and appreciate what we have on our very doorstep. I for one, am very proud of our club, and its position in the golfing world, and we shall celebrate our 125th anniversary this year through:

 

·       golfing membership offers,

 

·       golf competitions for all,

 

·       a 125 historical booklet,

 

·       a gala dinner in October and

 

·       a whole host of other events which are being planned as I write this.

 

Golf is an incredible game that can frustrate you, mock you and make an idiot of you but we love the competition, the fresh air, the making new friends and renewing of old ones, that one perfect shot that brings you back can be elusive at times but the search for perfection continues. Join me and the hundreds of others who will celebrate the 125th anniversary this year and encourage your children, your friends and families to take up the challenge that is golf.

 

I wish you all a sporting, peaceful and competitive year. I hope to see you out there on the course.

  

Seamus Shields Captain

 

Fortwilliam GC 2016.

 

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