Royal and Ancient Golf Club votes to include women

Members of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club in Scotland have voted overwhelmingly to admit women for the first time in the institution’s 260-year history.

The R&A ranks among the sport’s most greatest landmarks. More than 75% of the membership cast ballots on Thursday, with 85% in favor of becoming inclusive.

“This vote has immediate effect and I can confirm that the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews is now a mixed-membership club,” Peter Dawson, the secretary and chief executive, said in a statement.

The historic vote took place on the same day that Scotland is deciding whether to split from the United Kingdom.

Augusta National -- home of the Masters -- voted to admit women about two years ago. R&A officials said they plan to fast-track “a significant number” of candidates and invite females to join within the next few months.

“The R&A has served the sport of golf well for 260 years and I am confident that the club will continue to do so in future with the support of all its members, both women and men,” Dawson said.

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