Meet the New Golf Captains at Carden Park: Anne & Michael

At Carden Park golf course near Chester, the heartbeat of our club lies in its people. This year, we’re delighted to introduce our new golf captains: Anne Jones, who leads the Ladies’ Section and Michael Goodwin, taking the reins for the Men’s Section. With a combined 30 years of membership between them, Anne and Michael embody the spirit, camaraderie and dedication that makes our golf community truly special.

For Anne, her 16 years at the club have been about much more than just the game. “It’s the friendship of the members, the welcoming atmosphere from the staff and my love for the two beautiful courses and clubhouse,” she reflects. Michael echoes that sentiment, highlighting the tight-knit community that forms when you have a smaller, more intimate membership. “You always know someone in your four-ball, which makes everything more personable. The staff in the golf clubhouse are a great bunch, always making members feel valued.”

Get to know our new Golf Captains

Both captains bring experience and enthusiasm to their roles, having previously held various committee positions. Anne has served as Competition Secretary, Vice-Captain, Secretary and Social Secretary, while Michael brings experience as Handicap Secretary and Vice-Captain.

Looking ahead, Anne and Michael have an exciting calendar planned for 2025. Anne is organising cherished events such as the Lady Captain’s holiday to Morley Hayes in Derby, Captain’s Day, Ladies’ Invitation and the Captain’s Charity Day, among others. Michael, meanwhile, is coordinating a variety of home and away matches with neighbouring clubs, the Seniors Open, Captain’s Away Day at Eaton Golf Club and the Men’s Open – showcasing just how vibrant and active our golfing community is.

When asked how she feels about stepping into her new role, Anne said: “It is an honour and a privilege to serve the Ladies’ Section of Carden Park in my role as Lady Captain. It is my way of saying thank you to the club for all the enjoyable times it has afforded me in the past and in the hope that my contribution will inspire others to do the same and maintain the spirit that is Carden Park Golf Club.”

Their passion for golf members and the community is also reflected in the players they admire. Anne would choose to play a round with Lexi Thompson, who left a lasting impression on her during the 2014 Ladies’ Open at Trump Turnberry and for the work she does to promote golf to you people- so much so, she even named her Cockapoo after her! Michael, meanwhile dreams of sharing the fairways with Lee Trevino, inspired by legendary stories shared with him by Gary Player during a past personal Pro-Am experience in South Africa. Michael explained he “would love to play with and meet the man “Supermex” behind all the stories.”

The Golf Captains chosen 2025 charity

Both captains have chosen to support Guide Dogs as their charity for the year. It’s a cause that resonates deeply with them. For Michael, the choice is personal. “Guide Dogs holds a special place in my heart, we’re a family of dog lovers” he says. “My late mother was actively involved with the organisation and it’s partially tribute to her.”

Several charitable initiatives are already underway. The Captains’ Charity Golf Day and Dinner is scheduled for Tuesday 5th August 2025, and later in the year, members can look forward to a Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band Charity Ball on 28th November. There’s also a Guide Dogs Sponsored Walk planned for the Nicklaus Course in October and a Captain’s Raffle that will be held at regular intervals beginning in late April.

As we move through the year, both Anne and Michael are committed to making 2025 one to remember for all members. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or new to the game, there’s never been a better time to become a member at Carden Park.