We spoke to Elaine Simon, one of the new captains at Moor Allerton Golf Club.
Moor Allerton Golf Club has proudly welcomed two new Jewish captains – Elaine Simon and Howard Somers – who are both thrilled about bringing a welcoming, vibrant, and friendly atmosphere to the club.
Founded in 1923 by Abe Frais, Hyman Morris, and Louis Godlove, the club was established in response to Jewish golfers being denied membership at other clubs. Moor Allerton went on to become Europe’s first golf club founded with a distinctly Jewish ethos, paving the way for inclusion and community in the sport.
Nowadays, anyone of any denomination is welcome! Elaine and Howard are passionate about bringing some heritage back to the club: “There have been many captains over the years – of all religions,” Elaine explains. “We want to bring both Jewish and golfing traditions back to the club.”
The pair are more than qualified for the positions, with Elaine revisiting the role for a second time: “I was nominated as captain in 1990, and I’m thrilled to be back again. It’s Howard’s first time as captain at the club – he was previously captain of the Leeds Jewish Golfing Society.”
Both Elaine and Howard are enthusiastic to be stepping up and have already planned a jam-packed calendar for the next few months, alongside the busy golfing schedule. We’ll be serving festive food alongside songs and candle lighting that’s free and everyone’s welcome!
“On 1st March, we’ll be welcoming Lord Mayor Councillor Dan Cohen for afternoon tea, 18th April will see a performance by a Neil Diamond tribute act, and on 14th June, jeweller to the royal family, Edward Green, will be the guest speaker at a brunch.”
Captains of the golf club each pick a charity to support during their tenure; Elaine will be supporting Yorkshire Cancer Research and Howard’s charity is Yorkshire Air Ambulance.
“We’re really excited to get going,” Elaine says. “We want the club to be a vibrant space and can’t wait to host these events – and we won’t be charging a silly amount for tickets!”
