Dunluce Lodge Golf Brand Ambassador Wilma Erskine receives Special Recognition Award
The former Secretary-Manager of Royal Portrush Golf Club and current Golf Brand Ambassador for Dunluce Lodge, Portrush, has been recognised for her contribution to golf.
Wilma Erskine OBE, one of the most respected and influential figures in the world of golf, has been honoured with the ‘Special Recognition Award’ by Elevate Golf in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the game.
Wilma is also the Golf Brand Ambassador for Seaton House in St Andrews.
She received the award during the closing gala dinner of Elevate Golf 2026, held at the prestigious Fairmont St Andrews in Scotland. The event brought together leading figures from across the international golf industry to celebrate achievement and strengthen connections within the global golf tourism sector.
Wilma’s appointment as Golf Brand Ambassador for the Valor Hospitality owned Dunluce Lodge and Seaton House, Scotland is a particularly fitting partnership. The fourth fairway of the world-renowned Royal Portrush Golf Course runs directly alongside the grounds of Dunluce Lodge, creating a unique connection between the hotel and one of the most celebrated golf courses in the world.
With such a close relationship to the game, it was only fitting that someone of Wilma’s standing, experience and passion for golf should represent the two properties. She played a central role in raising the international profile of golf on the island of Ireland and helping to secure the return of The Open Championship to Royal Portrush in 2019, ending a 68-year absence.
Wilma is widely recognised for her exceptional contribution to the game, not only in Northern Ireland but internationally. She was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2020 in recognition of her services to golf. The Elevate Golf Special Recognition Award celebrates Wilma’s remarkable career, her commitment to promoting golf and the influence she has had on the wider international golf industry.
Stephen Meldrum, General Manager at Dunluce Lodge, said: “Wilma is an extraordinary ambassador for golf and a hugely valued member of the Dunluce Lodge team. Her knowledge, experience and passion for the game are recognised not only throughout Northern Ireland but across the international golfing community.
“This award is a thoroughly deserved recognition of her dedication to the game and the tremendous contribution she has made over so many years. We are delighted to see her achievements celebrated by Elevate Golf and the wider international golf community.”
Wilma Erskine said: “I am truly honoured to receive this award. Golf has been such a significant part of my life, and I have been incredibly fortunate to work alongside so many wonderful people who share the same passion for the game.
“I am also delighted to continue my involvement in the industry as Golf Brand Ambassador for both Dunluce Lodge and Seaton House. The connection between the Lodge and Royal Portrush is particularly unique with the course within touching distance of the hotel.
"It is a privilege to be part of a property that is so closely connected to such an iconic golf course. To have my contribution to the game recognised in this way is very special, and I would like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my journey.”