Spotlight: Women in Sports Who Inspire Us
Every day, women are pushing boundaries in sports, proving that strength, determination, and grace go hand in hand. In golf, in particular, trailblazing women continue to inspire others to take up the sport, whether as professionals or as recreational players.
Trailblazers Who Broke Barriers
Annika Sörenstam's groundbreaking participation in the 2003 Bank of America Colonial tournament marked a pivotal moment for women in golf. As the first woman to compete in a PGA Tour event since Babe Zaharias in 1945, Sörenstam challenged gender norms and showcased the skill of female golfers on a traditionally male stage.
Image: Annika Sörenstam
However, Sörenstam's achievement is part of a longer legacy of women breaking barriers in golf:
Early Pioneers
Lady Margaret Scott won the first three Women's Amateur Championships in the late 1890s, establishing women's competitive golf. Mary, Queen of Scots is often credited as the first female golfer in the 16th century, demonstrating the long history of women's involvement in the sport.
20th Century Trailblazers
Joyce Wethered dominated British golf in the 1920s and 1930s, winning four Women's British Open titles1. Glenna Collett Vare set a record with six U.S. Women's Amateur wins that still stands today.
Babe Didrikson Zaharias, a multi-sport athlete, became the first American to win the British Ladies Amateur Golf Championship and the first woman to compete against men in a PGA Tour event in 1938.
Breaking Colour Barriers
Althea Gibson broke the color barrier in golf in the 1950s, becoming the first African-American woman to compete on the LPGA Tour.
Modern Era
Nancy Lopez's influence in the late 20th century helped popularise women's golf. Lorena Ochoa inspired a generation of Latin American golfers with her success. Michelle Wie gained global attention as a young prodigy, further raising the profile of women's golf.
These trailblazers have collectively shaped the landscape of women's golf, challenging stereotypes, breaking records, and inspiring future generations of female golfers.
Everyday Heroes in Golf
It’s not just professionals who inspire. Everyday women balancing careers, families, and their passion for golf show us that the sport is accessible to everyone. Sharing these stories can inspire others to pick up a club, fostering greater diversity in the game.
At PARQ, we aim to shine a spotlight on women who inspire us – from professional athletes to weekend golfers who embody perseverance. Through partnerships with influencers and community leaders, we aim to amplify these stories and empower the next generation of women in sports.