The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews announces first female captain

Claire Dowling, a 68-year-old Irishwoman, has been named the first-ever female captain of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews in the club's 272-year history since its founding in 1754. Nominated by the Past Captains of the Club, she will serve as captain for 2026/27, beginning her term after the traditional driving-in ceremony on 25 September 2026. A distinguished amateur golfer, Dowling represented Great Britain and Ireland in the Curtis Cup four times, including the historic 1986 team that achieved a 13-5 victory over the USA at Prairie Dunes.