Samuel Ryder - Golf

Golf

Ryder enjoyed cricket in his early life, but seems to have played little sport in adult life until he was 50 years old. After a period of ill health in 1908, Ryder's friend Frank Wheeler, preacher at Trinity Congregational Church, suggested that Ryder take up golf as a way to get more fresh air. He became an enthusiastic amateur, quickly securing a single-figure handicap and joining Verulam Golf Club, where he served on the greens committee for 20 years. He made large donations to the club, and was appointed captain in 1911, 1926 and 1927. He was also captain of the Stratford-upon-Avon Golf Club in 1929 and 1930.

When Ryder took his family to Dorset for their annual summer holidays, he played golf at Came Down Golf Club. There he met the Whitcombe brothers - Ernest, Charles and Reg - and was impressed by their brilliant play. He asked Ernest if they ever played in important tournaments like The Open Championship. Ernest said "No" as he could not afford it, and went on to say "The Americans come over here smartly dressed and backed by wealthy supporters; the Britisher has a poor chance compared to that". Ryder considered that something vital was required to rouse clubs to take a real interest and responsibility in encouraging young professionals of talent like the Whitcombe brothers.