Pauline Sanderson lived until the age of 95 and played, administrated, captained, sponsored and contributed to golf in SA and Australia for more than 70 of those years.
There will be few people, male or female, who will contribute more to their sport than Pauline Sanderson.
Pauline Sanderson lived until the age of 95 and played, administrated, captained, sponsored and contributed to golf in SA and Australia for more than 70 of those years.
It’s not an overstatement to say her contribution to golf was immense.
On the course, Pauline’s short game was her strength, playing Pennant for Kooyonga for more than 30 years, along the way winning the Pennant title a dominating 16 times.
In 2017 SA decided to honour Pauline Sanderson’s outstanding success and presence in the Women’s A1 by naming the trophy the Pauline Sanderson Cup.
She wore her success and leadership with humility, and she gleaned much pleasure in watching junior players develop.
Former Australian representative Edwina Kennedy described her this way. “Pauline, or Paul, as she was fondly known to family and friends, was quiet by nature and not one to waste words, but when she did speak it was well worth listening.”
She faced adversity with dignity, stoicism and grace and she never sought recognition or acknowledgement of her efforts or her generosity. She simply derived great pleasure from seeing young players improve and older players continue in the game for a long as possible, as she did. She had a sharp, dry wit, a mischievous twinkle in her eye and was excellent company.
“Paul just gave and gave and gave to the game – her time, her energy, her financial support, her encouragement of others. She was very humble and didn’t expect or want the thanks or accolades she deserved. I feel so lucky to have known her and to have enjoyed her friendship during and after my golf career.”
Below is a list of Pauline Sanderson’s awards, involvements and achievements:
To mark the passing of this remarkable woman, a minute’s silence was held prior to the first tee time at the 2023 SA Amateur Championship and flowers were placed in her honour next to the women’s first tee.
Bibliography: