Cape Breton's Gillian Ryan Shines with Back-to-Back Florida Golf Titles

Sebring, Florida, USA - Gillian Ryan, a determined golfer from Glace Bay, Cape Breton, has once again made headlines by securing her second consecutive women’s club championship at the scenic Golf Hammock Country Club in Sebring, Florida. This remarkable achievement unfurled in March 2025, where Ryan showcased her skills over two days, ultimately finishing with a score of 153 (80-73) to outpace her closest competitor, Beth Weiler, who recorded a total of 164 (80-84).

Ryan’s victory is particularly notable as it came against the backdrop of Weiler’s impressive nine-year winning streak at the club prior to Ryan’s win in 2024. “This year, I felt more internal pressure to maintain my winning streak,” Ryan remarked. Last year’s championship saw her come from behind, making this year’s win a testament to her consistency and determination.

A Journey to the Top

Interestingly, Ryan picked up the sport in 2000, stepping into the golfing world after her children moved on from high school sports. It was her husband, Paul Ryan, who patiently taught her the ins and outs of the game. Over the years, Gillian has carved a niche for herself in the golfing community, not just in Cape Breton but also before her move, winning various championships in Winnipeg from 2013 to 2017. “Gillian has recorded three hole-in-one shots across her 25-year golfing journey,” noted a comment from her supporters.

Originally calling New Waterford home, the Ryans transitioned to Cape Breton in 2018, joining the Lingan Golf and Country Club. Paul Ryan himself made headlines in 2024 by winning the men’s club championship. However, due to a leg injury, he had to skip defending his title this year, creating a bittersweet note in their family’s golfing saga.

Golf Hammock: A Florida Gem

Golf Hammock Country Club, the venue of Ryan’s recent triumph, is an 18-hole, par 72 course, meticulously designed by golf architect Ron Garl. Located in charming Sebring, the area is also renowned for the famous „12 Hours of Sebring“ auto race, drawing crowds from near and far. This community not only boasts approximately 770 housing units but is also positioned at a leisurely distance of about 90 minutes southwest of major attractions like Disney World and Universal Studios.

The club, open to the public, embodies a welcoming spirit for both local golfers and visitors. As golf enthusiasts flock to enjoy the course’s lush fairways and scenic views, Golf Hammock continues to be a delightful destination for sports lovers.

Continuing Traditions in Sebring

Looking ahead, the golfing legacy in Sebring is poised to endure with the transition of the historic Harder Hall Invitational – a prominent women’s amateur tournament. First held in 1956, the event has seen champions like Nelly Korda and Joanne Carner rise to fame. However, with the Harder Hall Country Club permanently closing its doors, concerns about the future of this iconic tournament emerged. In a proactive response, local officials and golf enthusiasts are now set to continue the tradition through the Citrus Golf Trail Ladies Invitational, rotating among various local courses, including Ryan’s recent championship host, Golf Hammock Country Club.

This event promises not just to preserve the legacy of the Harder Hall Invitational but also offer competitive opportunities, with registration now open for golfers of all divisions. With its emphasis on community involvement and the promotion of women’s golf, the Citrus Golf Trail is set to leave a lasting mark.

As Gillian Ryan prepares to return to Canada, her achievements in the Sunshine State serve as a reminder of the rich talent flourishing from Cape Breton. Despite plans to move back to Winnipeg to be closer to her grandchildren, both Gillian and Paul Ryan will undoubtedly carry cherished memories of their time competing in the vibrant golf scene of Florida.