Anna-Retha Rafferty’s life changed in May 2018 when she welcomed her second baby. Feeling confined to the routine of motherhood, she decided to take up golf as a way to reconnect with her passions. Despite no prior experience, she joined the Jumeirah Golf Estates golf club and quickly fell in love with the sport. The COVID-19 lockdowns provided her with the opportunity to play more golf and realize the deeper meaning it held for her.
Being a member of the JGE offered her a sense of belonging and allowed her to connect with other lady golfers who shared her passion. The camaraderie and support from fellow players inspired her to take on the captaincy role. In this role, she is focused on fostering a spirit of collaboration and encouragement within the ladies group, making golf more about community and fun rather than just handicaps. Anna’s goal is to empower women to embrace golf with confidence and make it a welcoming environment for everyone.
With approximately 140 lady members at the JGE, including families and kids, Anna and her team are committed to creating a vibrant community. Through engaging events like ‘Nine & Wine’ afternoons and diverse competitions, they are actively involved in encouraging more women to join the sport. Anna regularly meets with the Men’s Club Captain to discuss strategies for enhancing membership, competitions, and the fun aspect of golf, ensuring that the club remains a welcoming and engaging place for everyone.
Reflecting on her favorite moments as captain, Anna cherishes the Captain’s Drive-In Day as a truly special experience. The connections made at the clubhouse have been meaningful to her, emphasizing the importance of building a strong community within the ladies’ club. Halfway into her term, Anna stands as an inspiration to others, proving that it’s never too late to pursue one’s passions. She wants to be remembered as a welcoming and fun-loving person who creates an inclusive environment where every member feels valued. Anna’s journey exemplifies resilience, focus, and the transformative power of pursuing one’s passion at any stage in life.
As Anna continues to navigate motherhood and golf, her mindset has transformed profoundly, showcasing the true meaning of living a fulfilling life with grace and determination. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that no obstacle can prevent one from following their heart’s desires. Anna’s story is a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one’s passions, even after facing challenges like childbirth and the impact of a global pandemic. Her dedication to golf and the community at JGE is an inspiration to others, showing that it’s never too late to rekindle one’s sporting desires and create a supportive and inclusive environment for all.
