Cushendall’s Fiona Delargy makes history as Golf Ireland President
- Love Ballymena
- 3 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Golf Ireland outgoing President Michael Evans and new President Fiona Delargy at the Golf Ireland AGM in the Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone.
(Photo credit: Bryan Keane / Inpho.)
A proud moment for the north coast — and a landmark for women in sport — as Cushendall’s Fiona Delargy has been appointed President of Golf Ireland, becoming the first Ulster woman to take on the prestigious role.
Her appointment was confirmed at the organisation’s 2026 National AGM, held on Saturday (March 28) at the Hodson Bay Hotel, marking a significant milestone both for Delargy personally and for representation within Irish golf leadership.
A historic appointment for Ulster
Delargy, a long-standing member of Cushendall Golf Club, succeeds outgoing President Michael Evans, who concluded his term at the AGM.
Having served as President-Elect over the past year, Delargy steps into the role with decades of experience behind her — and a clear sense of purpose.
The Incoming President Golf Ireland Fiona Delargy surrounded by Cushendall supporters on Friday evening.
Speaking after her appointment, she said:
“I’m very proud and honoured to be in this privileged position. I’m excited and extremely grateful to be awarded this prestigious opportunity. I am proud to be the first Ulster female president of Golf Ireland so that is also a particular honour.
“We have got a great year ahead of us and a very busy season. I’m looking forward to seeing everybody and seeing it all in action.”
A vision of golf for everyone
Delargy highlighted Golf Ireland’s growing focus on inclusivity, pointing to initiatives that span all ages and abilities.
“Golf Ireland has catered for everybody, from GolfSixes through to our veterans and our golfers with a disability. We are reaching out to absolutely everybody. The Golf Ireland ethos is that golf is for everybody, and it has created something for everyone that we didn’t have in the past,” she said.
She also welcomed the introduction of four new women’s regional championships, describing them as a key step towards equality in the sport.
“The four new women’s regional championships are also a fantastic addition to the calendar and should hopefully draw us in line with the men’s events, again, equality and provision for everyone and it will be good to see those championships grow.”
A lifetime dedicated to sport
Delargy brings more than 45 years of involvement in golf as both a player and volunteer. Her contribution spans grassroots development to national leadership.
She previously served as Ulster Regional Secretary for Golf Ireland, helping establish the Regional Executive Committee and supporting the formation of a unified governing body. Her earlier roles include ILGU Ulster District Secretary and positions on both the Ulster District Executive and Junior Development Committees.
At club level in Cushendall, she has held a wide range of roles, including Captain, Ladies’ Secretary, Junior Convenor and Children’s Safeguarding Officer — reflecting a lifelong commitment to growing the game locally.
Beyond golf, she has also contributed to sport through her work with Netball Northern Ireland and as Chair of NI Schools’ Netball.
Key appointments and recognitions
The AGM also confirmed Joe McNamara as President-Elect, with plans to assume the presidency at the 2027 AGM.
Two new Board Directors were approved for four-year terms, with Moira Lynott elected as Regional Director and Richard Hills appointed as Nominated Director.
Meanwhile, volunteers from across Ireland were honoured for their contribution to the sport. Among the award winners were Dolores Hamill (Women & Girls), Eveleen McCurry, Paddy Rae and Roisin Darragh (Disability and Inclusion), Peter Edwards and Gerry Kennedy (Sustainability), Susan O’Sullivan (Junior Development), and Orla Foley (Excellence in Service).
A proud moment for Cushendall and beyond
Delargy’s appointment represents more than personal achievement — it signals progress in leadership diversity and recognition of Ulster’s contribution to Irish golf.
With a busy season ahead and a strong focus on inclusion and equality, her presidency begins at a time of growth and transformation for the sport.
For her home club and community, it is a moment of pride — and a reminder of how local dedication can shape the national stage.
At a glance
Fiona Delargy appointed President of Golf Ireland at 2026 AGM
First woman from Ulster to hold the role
Member of Cushendall Golf Club with over 45 years in the sport
AGM held at Hodson Bay Hotel in Athlone
Succeeds outgoing President Michael Evans
Focus on inclusivity, equality, and growing participation
Joe McNamara named President-Elect for 2027
Volunteers across Ireland recognised for contributions