Celebrating 50 years of empowering African American women in golf, Les Birdies continues to make a positive impact through Tee Time With Purpose.

The Les Birdies Golf Club, founded by a group of determined Black women in Cincinnati, is marking a major milestone as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. The club, known for its groundbreaking programming, will gather its members on the lush greens to honor its past and embrace its future. It's hard to forget the challenges faced by Black women in the world of golf.

In an era where exclusivity was the norm, Les Birdies created a welcoming space for Black women to perfect their swings back in 1976. "We were not welcome in many places, and the golf course was not an exception," shared Jackie Parker, the club's membership chair, in an interview with WCPO. Thanks to the determination of women like Theresa Bassette, Barbara Cooksey, Mamie Lewis, and Kathleen Tolbert, among others, Les Birdies defied the status quo and paved their own path.

As the club commemorates its 50 years of service, it will do so in style with a grand 50th anniversary gala. The gala will not only celebrate the club's dedication to making golf accessible for Black women but also reflect on its impact beyond the golf course. While teaching the art of the swing remains a crucial part of their programming, Les Birdies has also fostered a sense of mentorship and sisterhood among its members of all ages.

They have launched initiatives like tutoring services and scholarships to empower women and girls in the Cincinnati community. In addition to the gala, the 50th anniversary year will also feature a special golf tournament on July 18th. This event will not only be a celebration of the club's achievements but also an opportunity for its members to "play it forward" and inspire the next generation to break barriers in the sport.

"What began on the course grew into a powerful platform for impact," described the Les Birdies golf club. "Through supporting students with scholarship tournaments, engaging youth through outreach programs, and building meaningful community partnerships, the club has helped countless young people pursue higher education and discover the game of golf." As the club looks forward to the future, it remains committed to its mission of promoting diversity and inclusion in the world of golf. With events like the 50th anniversary gala and golf tournament, Les Birdies continues to inspire and empower Black women in Cincinnati and beyond.