Blue Plaque unveiled in memory of May Hezlet

THE Ulster History Circle have joined the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens to unveil a Blue Plaque at Royal Portrush Ladies’ Clubhouse in memory of May Hezlet.

Thanks to Council support, May will be remembered for her outstanding contribution to ladies’ golf from a very young age.

On an annual basis Council sponsors the installation of one blue plaque in memory of eminent persons from the Borough and May Hezlet, who was from Aghadowey, was chosen for the key role she played in growing the sport for women of her generation.

Mayor Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, who unveiled the plaque said: “It is fitting that we mark eight-time golfing championship winner May Hezlet and her contribution to growing the sport of golf for women.

 “She was a trailblazer of her era and the Blue Plaque now on display at Royal Portrush Ladies’ Clubhouse is a fitting tribute to her legacy, particularly in this, the year that the R&A Open returns to Portrush this July and golf is very much the sport of the moment.”

“I was proud to join the Ulster History Circle and representatives of Royal Portrush to unveil this plaque in her memory.”

 May Hezlet was born in Gibraltar on 29th April 1882, and in her later years became President of Portrush Ladies’ Club, holding the post until 1951. During her golfing career she won the Irish Championship in 1899 and just one week later at age 17, she won the British Championship on the same links at Newcastle, County Down. 

Between 1899 and 1908 May won the Irish Championship five times, also winning the British Championship three times during the same period. 

* For full story see next week's Coleraine Chronicle.