Newburgh-on-Ythan Golf Club are winning their battle on the long road back to financial stability.
The Aberdeenshire links, established in 1888, had been hit by soaring costs in energy, equipment and course materials following the onset of Covid.
A worldwide plea for cash help was launched earlier this year at the start of a vital fund-raising campaign, and Newburgh captain Jonathan Dobson is delighted to report the club’s future looks much more secure.
Jonathan said: “The club is in a much better place now.
“We raised about £57,000 from members and had a further anonymous donation of £25,000, so we are on a far more solid financial footing.
“The struggle isn’t over yet and we will be continuing to raise money, drive memberships and visitors forward, but we have a good starting point to progress and thrive.”
Money raised will be used to attract new members and visitors
Newburgh members were made aware of the cash-flow plight at an extraordinary general meeting, but were quick to make donations, form working groups to help on the course, as well as looking at the financial options and fund-raising initiatives.
The launch of a Crowdfunder campaign spearheaded the wider fund-raising drive to stabilise the club’s future.
The initial money raised ensured the club could continue to trade for the remainder of the year, was stable and that fixed expenditure could be met.
The additional monies raised will go into significant efforts to recruit new members and attract visitors from the local area, the rest of the UK and overseas.
Newburgh was founded 134 years ago as a nine-hole course, but matured to a full 18 holes in 1994.
Evening Express Champion of Champions winner Tyler Ogston targets district team call-up
Tyler Ogston is setting his sights on breaking into the North-east District team next year.
Nigg Bay member Tyler had a brilliant season, culminating in lifting the Evening Express Champion of Champions men’s scratch title at Kemnay, then days later he retained his club championship.
Quayside operative Tyler defeated Callum Coutts, of Alford, in the North-east District’s flagship matchplay by 6&5, then defeated another former Nigg champion Ryan Forbes by 3&1 in their club final at Balnagask.
Tyler, 23, said: “I will definitely be entering district and national events next year to hopefully earn an opportunity to represent the North-east District.
“I played a national event last year and enjoyed it, so I’m looking forward to next season already.
“I still can’t believe I’ve won such a prestigious tournament as the Champion of Champions.
“It’s such a massive achievement so early in my golf career.”
Tyler already looking to defend titles
Tyler defeated Callum after beating last year’s defending champion Adam Dunton (Ellon McDonald) in the semi-finals.
“The final was a great game against Callum, who was a tough opponent,” added Tyler. “I played nicely, but the score flattered me as Callum was very unlucky on a few occasions.
“Having beaten two great players in Royal Aberdeen’s Grant Joss, in the quarter-finals, and then Adam, gave me great confidence going into the final.
“I’m looking forward to next year to try to defend my titles.”
Tyler clinched the North-east District’s flagship matchplay event in style in front of a bus-load if Nigg Bay supporters.
Two up at the turn after being out in level par 36, Tyler won the 10th with a par before winning the next three holes with birdies.
The six Champion of Champions tournaments were sponsored by Aberdein Considine to the tune of £2,400.
Night golf is back at north-east course
Demand for night golf at Trump International has proved so popular it has been extended to two evenings this year.
Play will be over five holes in darkness using neon-lit balls, fairways and flags on Thursday and Friday, November 10-11.
The cost is £85 per person, sold as a four-ball or two-ball, and includes a burger and a beer.
For more details call 01358 743300 or email bookings@trumpgolfscotland.com.
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