Captain of Ilorin Golf Club, Barrister Jumoke Adebayo-Orire has appealed to prominent individuals in Kwara State to stop tagging female golfers as irresponsible women in the society.
Barrister Adebayo-Orire made the appeal during a World Press Conference to herald the ICAM PRO-AM 2024 on Tuesday.
The ICAM PRO-AM 2024 is scheduled for 31st October to 3rd November at the Ilorin Golf Club in Kwara State.
She told www.aclsports that 22 ladies (7 from Ilorin Gold Club and 15 from outside Ilorin) will participate in the tournament.
She said, “In many cultures, including some interpretations of Islamic culture, there can be traditional views on gender roles that may stigmatize women participating in activities like golf. This stigma can discourage women from pursuing sports, limiting their opportunities for personal development and community engagement.
“In Ilorin, we have influential individuals labelling/ female golfers as irresponsible women, suggesting that their choice to play golf was a neglect of their family duties and societal roles. We are not just golfers but mothers, professionals, and contributors to our society. It is time we stand up to educate our people and redefine what being a woman in sport means.”
She added, “Golf is not just a game; it is a testament to discipline, strategy, and community. Every swing we take teaches us resilience and grace, qualities we embody in every aspect of our lives.
“We need to take this conversation beyond these walls. We must engage with our communities, share our experiences, and invite others to understand the beauty of our sport.”
Adebayo-Orire said, “Labelling them as “irresponsible” can be harmful and reductive, overlooking their dedication, skill, and the challenges they may face in a male-dominated sport. Promoting a more supportive and respectful attitude towards women in golf can help foster greater inclusivity and recognition of their contributions to the game.”
