For Summer Elliot, Nairn Golf Club has always been more than just a course – it’s where her love for golf began and where lifelong memories were made.
“I was born in Nairn and have been a member at the golf club since the age of eight,” said Summer.
“I used to swim a lot, but one day I saw a group golf session advertised. I fancied trying it out and instantly fell in love with the game. From that day on, even when I walked the dog, I would bring a golf club and chip balls along the way.”
Summer’s early golfing days were spent on the Cameron Course, where the club’s thriving junior section played a huge role in her development.
“Jen Abbott was brilliant with all the juniors. She ran a Monday junior session after school where we’d play nine holes in different formats, with prizes up for grabs. It was a great way to meet new juniors and improve my game. There were always about 15 of us, and afterwards we’d head to the Junior Room at the clubhouse to watch golf on TV and eat curly fries. Those are core memories for me.”
Coaching was another cornerstone of Summer’s journey.
“Murray was my coach and played a major part in my golf life. He’s helped so many juniors over the years at Nairn. Having him at the club was invaluable – he’s a fantastic coach and a great asset.”
Her progression was rapid.
“The first time I played the full 18 on the Championship Course I was 10,” she said. “Shortly after, I won the Ladies’ Handicap Club Championship. I had a seven-foot putt to win it on the 18th – I can still remember the feeling when it dropped! Breaking par for the first time came at 13, after years of being stuck at three over.”
When asked about her favourite hole at Nairn, Summer doesn’t hesitate: “The 15th – the drivable par 4. The views out to sea are amazing.”
Even now, having been played for the Scotland Team as a Junior, Summer remains deeply connected to Nairn. “I go back every week – it’s my favourite place to practice. The facilities are fantastic, the driving range is great and the Cameron Course is still fun to play for short-game work.”
Reflecting on her experience, Summer says: “There can’t be many better clubs to be a junior golfer—you grow up just immersed in the game.”