The England Captains’ Grand Final marked a historic moment as Sylvia Kempsell became the first woman to win the prestigious event. Held at the renowned Hotchkin Course at Woodhall Spa, Kempsell, a member of Leatherhead Golf Club, clinched the title with an impressive total of 42 Stableford points, beating Ian Smith by just one point. Kempsell, aged 71, had qualified for the final through the event at Burhill and showcased her skills by scoring points on every hole, including six pars. Three players finished with 40 points, but Chris Chisnall secured third place on countback.
England Captains is an exclusive community for past and present English club and county captains and vice-captains, with a membership of over 5,000 active members. The program, which has been running since 1973, is open to both men and women, providing a platform for golf enthusiasts to showcase their skills and compete in prestigious events. The 2025 England Captains Tournament Series is set to expand to 15 venues, including respected courses such as Silloth on Solway, Moortown, Saunton, and Purdis Heath, offering members the opportunity to experience a variety of top-quality golfing experiences.
In the final event of England Golf Week, Sylvia Kempsell’s historic win at the England Captains’ Grand Final shone a spotlight on her talent and dedication to the sport. With a course handicap of 27, Kempsell’s strategic play and consistent performance allowed her to secure victory in a competitive field of 78 qualifiers. The event, which saw participants from 11 England Captains events come together for the 18-hole final, highlighted Kempsell’s resilience and skill on the challenging Hotchkin Course at Woodhall Spa.
The success of England Captains events and the growing popularity of the community reflect the enduring appeal of golf as a sport that unites individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. As an inclusive program that welcomes both men and women, England Captains provides a platform for golf enthusiasts to connect, compete, and celebrate their shared passion for the game. With a rich history dating back to 1973, the program continues to attract new members and expand its reach across the country, fostering a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among players of all levels.
Looking ahead to the 2025 England Captains Tournament Series, the expansion to 15 venues signals the program’s commitment to providing members with diverse and challenging golfing experiences. From classic courses like Silloth on Solway to iconic venues such as Moortown and Saunton, players can look forward to testing their skills on a range of layouts and landscapes. The inclusion of Purdis Heath and other respected courses underscores the program’s dedication to offering its members access to premium golfing opportunities while honoring the tradition and history of the sport.
For golf enthusiasts and followers of the England Captains community, the final leaderboard of the recent event serves as a reminder of the talent and competitive spirit that define the program. As Sylvia Kempsell’s name sits at the top of the standings, alongside Ian Smith and Chris Chisnall, the leaderboard captures the excitement and drama of the Grand Final. With players like Kempsell making history and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the sport, the England Captains community continues to inspire and motivate golfers of all ages and backgrounds to pursue their passion for golf and strive for excellence on and off the course.
