After 275 years, Muirfield invites 12 women to join Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers
Open Championship

After 275 years, Muirfield invites 12 women to join Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers

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After 275 years of existence and more than two years after an overwhelming member vote supporting the move, Muirfield's Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers has invited a dozen women to join the organization. This marks the first time the Scottish club has welcomed women to membership.

The 12 women are part of 15 total people invited to take up membership starting July 1.

"This marks a milestone in the club's illustrious history, and we look forward to welcoming all of our new members to share in the great values and traditions of our club," said Alistair Campbell, captain of the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers.

"This year marks the 275th anniversary of the club's first recorded golf competition. We are proud of our rich history but equally excited for its future and the part all of our new members will play in the club's cherished traditions."

The club was told in 2016 by the R&A it wouldn't be able to host the Open Championship if it chose to maintain all-male membership. A club vote in 2016 to allow female members garnered 64 percent support, falling short of the two-thirds majority required. A re-do in March 017 garnered 80 percent support.

The R&A has announced future British Open venues through 2022, making 2023 the soonest the club can host the game's oldest championship for the 17th time. Muirfield last hosted the Open in 2013, and it trails St. Andrews and Prestwick as the most-frequent host.

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Ryan Ballengee

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