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The Gailes Hotel and Spa in Irvine, Scotland, has announced the appointment of Brandy Rook as its first female PGA professional golfer to help promote the sport on the Ayrshire coast.
Rook will be responsible for running “Ladies Do Golf” classes for beginners and experienced players, which will be held in a dedicated studio with video analysis and short game practice facilities.
Operated by SimpsInns, The Gailes is located about 40 minutes from Glasgow and was named Scotland’s best spa and golf hotel at the 2025 Scottish Prestige Hotel Awards. It features a PGA Academy, a Toptracer driving range and dedicated practice areas.
Rook said: “I thought it would be a good idea to start offering new ‘Ladies Do Golf’ group sessions to encourage more women into golf at The Gailes. If you’ve never played golf before, it’s less intimidating to come to an all-women’s class with a female teacher. There is a more relaxed atmosphere here at The Gailes, too.
“Golf has traditionally been a male sport, but we’re seeing more women wanting to take part. It’s more popular now than it has ever been. You don’t need to be a member of a golf club anymore. Women’s golf communities are growing around the UK, with groups meeting to play at golf courses, or enjoy golfing away days or holidays with like-minded women.”
Originally from Eastbourne, Rook began playing golf aged 11 after watching her father and brother. She studied sports science at Sussex Downs College and completed PGA training at the University of Birmingham, graduating in May. She recently tied for first place at the WPGA Stroke Play event in Donegal.
