Historic integration creates a single club for the future of golf at Balgownie
Members of Royal Aberdeen Golf Club and Aberdeen Ladies Golf Club have voted to unite the two historic organisations into a single club, marking a landmark moment in the future of golf at Balgownie.
The decision brings together two clubs with a shared heritage spanning almost 250 years and represents the latest step in Royal Aberdeen’s evolution following its 2018 vote to permit mixed-gender membership. Formal integration will take effect on 1 September 2026, creating a stronger and more inclusive club for future generations of golfers.
Laurence McLeod, Captain of Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, said: “This is a landmark day for both clubs and an important moment in Royal Aberdeen’s history. The decision taken by our members in 2018 to permit mixed-gender membership set the direction of travel for the Club, and today’s vote is a natural progression of that journey.
“Most importantly, this integration strengthens the future of golf at Balgownie. It creates a clearer pathway for junior golfers, particularly girls and young women, and brings together two clubs that share a common heritage and ambition.
“I would like to thank the many office bearers, Council and committee members, advisers and members from both clubs whose hard work, commitment and leadership have made this possible.”
Carron Taylor, Captain of Aberdeen Ladies Golf Club, said: “This is a proud day for Aberdeen Ladies Golf Club and a positive vote for the future. Our members have embraced the opportunity to join with Royal Aberdeen in creating a stronger club for future generations.
“I would like to thank everyone from both clubs who has contributed to this process. Their dedication, collaboration and mutual respect have been instrumental in reaching this point.
“We are particularly excited about the opportunities this creates for young golfers and for the continued growth of women’s golf at Balgownie.”
The integration is intended to strengthen opportunities for women and girls, support the continued development of junior golf, enhance the long-term sustainability of the Club and reinforce Royal Aberdeen’s position as one of the world’s leading championship links venues.
Laurie Watson, General Manager of Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, said: “This vote represents the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both clubs. The members have given a clear mandate and our focus now turns to delivering on the intent behind that decision.
“The team at Royal Aberdeen Golf Club looks forward to working closely with members from both organisations to ensure the integration is implemented thoughtfully, carefully and in a way that reflects the values, traditions and culture that make both clubs so special.
“Members should view tonight’s vote not as the end of a process, but as the beginning of one. Integration will be delivered in phases and with members at the heart of the journey. There is a great deal of work ahead, but there is also tremendous opportunity. As we approach Royal Aberdeen Golf Club’s 250th anniversary in 2030, we are excited about building a club that combines tradition with opportunity, honours the heritage of both organisations and is well positioned to thrive for the next 250 years.”
Next Steps
- 1 September 2026: Legal completion of the transfer and implementation arrangements.
- 2026-27: Establishment of joint governance and clubhouse working groups, together with the progressive integration of club activities and communications.
- 2027-30: Continued development of junior, ladies’ and membership pathways, alongside consideration of long-term governance and facility enhancements.
- 2030: Royal Aberdeen Golf Club celebrates its 250th anniversary as a fully integrated club.
Photo Captions
RAGC Integration Signatories – Representatives of Royal Aberdeen Golf Club and Aberdeen Ladies Golf Club following the successful vote to integrate the two clubs. Back row (left to right): Jane Lolley (ALGC Committee Member), Michael Cochrane (RAGC Vice-Captain), Jan Jeffrey (ALGC Vice-Captain), Laurie Watson (General Manager), Margaret Milton (ALGC Committee Member) and Nick Dalgarno (RAGC Immediate Past Captain). Front row: Carron Taylor (ALGC Captain) and Laurence McLeod (RAGC Captain).
Notes to Editors
- Royal Aberdeen Golf Club was founded in 1780 and is one of the oldest golf clubs in the world.
- Aberdeen Ladies Golf Club was founded in 1892 and has enjoyed a long-standing association with Royal Aberdeen Golf Club.
- Members of both clubs voted overwhelmingly in favour of integration at Special General Meetings held on 26 August 2026.
- The integration is intended to strengthen the long-term future of golf at Balgownie while respecting the heritage and traditions of both clubs.
ENDS
Media Contact
Laurie Watson
General Manager
Royal Aberdeen Golf Club
gm@royalaberdeengolf.com
www.royalaberdeengolf.com
