Dumfries Rotary Club members were delighted to learn about the rich history of the Crichton Golf Club during their October meeting. The club, which is currently celebrating its 140th anniversary, was the focus of a captivating presentation by Ian Jess, a former president of the rotary club, and Lee Sterritt, a prominent figure in junior sports in Dumfries and Galloway.
The talk traced the origins of the golf club back to 1844 when the first record of golf was made on a five-hole course near Crichton Hall. Over the years, the club evolved to a nine-hole course at the present Mountainhall site before transitioning to the current course in 1970. Notably, the first shot on the current course was struck by Mr Errington, the club captain and secretary of the Board of Management of Crichton Royal.
The Mountainhall site, established in 1957 for a modest £10,400, has seen its share of challenges, including complaints from the public about wayward golf shots. Initially, the course was primarily used by staff and patients of Crichton Royal, with rounds costing £1 for them and £2 for nominated individuals. The current course was designed by George Templeton and opened in April 1970.
Following the closure of Crichton Royal Hospital in 1997, the club rebranded as Crichton Golf Club. In 1995, Dumfries and Galloway Council acquired the course, which was later managed by the Crichton Development Company until 2005 when members took over operations. The club boasts a thriving youth section, which recently made it to the final six clubs in a national competition, a remarkable achievement considering the club had only four part-time volunteer coaches compared to other well-established Scottish clubs.
In closing, Lee expressed optimism about the future of the club despite the challenges faced by the golfing industry. With 14 courses closing in Scotland this year alone, he voiced hope that Crichton Golf Club is well-positioned for its 150th anniversary in the next decade.
In conclusion, the history of Crichton Golf Club is a testament to resilience, dedication, and community spirit, making it a cherished landmark in Dumfries and Galloway’s sporting landscape.