Two women making golf news this week claim to have taken up the game simply for fun. In the case of Irish Open champion Sophie Gustafson, it has led to a third victory on America's LPGA Tour. And for Ann Popplewell, it has brought the distinction of becoming only the third Irishwoman to be chairman of the Ladies' Golf Union.

Ms Popplewell had played 42 times for Ireland at lacrosse when, at 32, she decided to take up golf. And Tony Wall might be interested to note that as a member of Curragh GC, she plays the game left-handed, as she did in her former sport. She also retains a passion for horses, keeping several thoroughbreds at her home in Co Wicklow.

Meanwhile, Gustafson's impressive progress since capturing her first Irish Women's Open in 1998 can be gauged by a three-stroke triumph over no less a figure than Karrie Webb in the Subaru Memorial event.

"She handles the pressure well," said Webb. Which will come as no surprise to those of us who saw her play-off triumph at Ballyliffin.