Tim Willerton Knows What Women Want in Golf Travel

Several years ago when Tim Willerton carried his first bag as a part-time caddy on the LPGA Tour he never imagined the knowledge gained would be so beneficial in planning golf trips.

“I received a much broader perspective on how women view golf and their likes and dislikes about the game and the golf industry in general,” says Willerton, a golf travel specialist for Premier Golf. “Speaking with different players, corporate sponsors at pro am parties and fans, I got a better idea of women’s sensibilities when it comes to golf.”

Willerton caddied for New Zealander Sarah Kemp and Nicole Broch-Larson from Denmark. He fell into caddying by happenstance. Hosting a travel group at the Masters, Willerton was introduced to several LPGA players.  Impressed with his knowledge about the game, Kemp asked him to caddy and he accepted.

“I always wanted to see what it was like behind the ropes and that was my chance to experience golf at a very high level,” says Willerton, a devoted and passionate golfer. “I learned so much about what it takes to be successful when there’s money on the line. It’s so different than just playing a casual round of golf.”

Friendly and gregarious, Willerton built friendships with golfers from countries like Scotland, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.

“They described the golf in their country and talked, from a female perspective, about where they like to play and what they like to do off the course,” he says.

A veteran in the golf travel industry, Willerton has established many great relationships at major golf destinations and is known for his ability to find hidden gem golf courses, dining options and attractions. Willerton uses the knowledge he gained from caddying to plan couples and ladies-only trips.

He says women typically have a major role in designing a couples golf trip.

“While golf is an important part of the trip, women want a more balanced itinerary,” Willerton says. “It’s not just about including great restaurants, spas and shopping. Some of the interesting non-golf activities available in Scotland include walking on coastal trails, knitting tours and afternoon tea. I love to speak with clients about what they want to enhance their trip and then make it a reality.”

Willerton’s expertise on women’s golf and acute knowledge of Scotland’s golf courses and activities are valued qualities this year with the Solheim Cup being played at Gleneagles in September.

“I know Scotland well and I think I can help female and male golfers plan a truly memorable experience there and at other great destinations around the world,” Willerton says.

Tim can be reached at tim.willerton@premiergolf.com