On 8th May 2025, our “Allied Fours” competition supports Help for Heroes, raising funds for wounded veterans and their families through physical, psychological and welfare support. As you walk the fairways today, you’re treading ground that played its part in our nation’s defence, and those club members who served while preserving the game we cherish.
Full details here.
Tenby Golf Club’s Proud Military Heritage
A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
Since1888, Tenby Golf Club has shared a remarkable bond with the Armed Forces – a relationship that has shaped our identity, traditions, and the land we play on. Our club began with a request to the War Department to use their land for golf at just £3 annual rent.
Through Two World Wars
During WWI, the War Department requisitioned land near Penally/Giltar, claiming the then 10th and 11th holes. Three firing ranges were built, with WWI training trenches still visible today in the land adjacent to the 8th. Many members served in Flanders and with the Navy, temporarily closing our clubhouse. Upon return, these servicemen brought new perspectives, supporting Sunday golf at the 1920 post-war meeting – a revolutionary cultural shift in its day. WWII brought more dramatic changes. In 1939, South Beach was converted into minefields with barbed wire to prevent any seaward invasions. Club lore recalls Mr. David Mathias’s fox terrier becoming “useful for retrieving balls through the barbed wire – he was not heavy enough to set off the mines.”
Enduring Traditions
Our military heritage continues through several club traditions. The Regimental Bowl, presented by the 1st Battalion of the Essex Regiment in 1933, remains our premier Nett Medal Competition(this year held in 11th May) . Later, the Royal Artillery presented the RA Cup (1958), and Captain Lance Pickering gifted the “Digger Cup” as he returned to Australia.
Remembrance and Support
Each November, the Tenby Golf Club Captain places a poppy wreath at the Tenby War Memorial, with members gathering to honour those who served. On 8th May 2025, our “Allied Fours” competition supports Help for Heroes, raising funds for wounded veterans and their families through physical, psychological and welfare support. As you walk the fairways today, you’re treading ground that played its part in our nation’s defence, and those club members who served while preserving the game we cherish.
Source: Tenby – the First 100 years (by JJL Mabe & edited by AJ Ormond) and archive material.