President inaugurates new RMGC clubhouse

The 125th anniversary celebrations of the Royal Malta Golf Club (RMGC) commenced on June 2 when President George Abela, patron of the club, inaugurated the rebuilt clubhouse.

The clubhouse now offers first-rate facilities for members and visitors and these were shown to President Abela by Paul Stoner, the club’s chairman accompanied by the captain, David Debono and lady captain, Felicity Dix.

President Abela then met over 200 RMGC members on the panoramic roof terrace overlooking the course.

Upon his arrival Dr Debono explained to the President how the club had progressed since its foundation in 1888 when the game was played in the ditches of Valletta’s fortifications, to its current high standard, thus meeting a growing local popularity for golf.

Dr Debono stressed how this was done from the members’ own resources and with much hard work by a committed management, all a reflection of the strong club spirit that prevailed.

President Abela congratulated all those involved on this wonderful achievement.

As a keen sportsman himself, Dr Abela said that Malta should be proud of the club’s progress while pledging his support for the RMGC’s endeavours to develop the game for a new generation of golfers.

Dr Abela also acknowledged that more land would enable the club to expand further for the benefit of Maltese and visitors alike.

Finally, President Abela wished the club well in their 125th anniversary celebrations, noting that the first week was a well-deserved birthday party for the members and the second will be a showcase for Malta as over 140 visitors will be joining from Royal clubs around the world – a compliment by the wider family of golf to Malta and the club’s distinguished origins.