IGFR Pinehurst

Rotary was founded on fellowship, a concept that has been expanded internationally through
the Rotary Fellowships, groups that bring together members from different countries and
cultures to enjoy a shared interest. In addition to fostering lifelong friendships, Rotary
Fellowships keep members active in Rotary, sustaining their interest and further inspiring
commitment.

Rotary Fellowships began informally in 1928 when Rotarians with a shared interest in Esperanto
joined together. In 1947, a group of Rotarian boating enthusiasts began flying the Rotary flag
from their crafts, calling themselves the International Yachting Fellowship of Rotarians; this
fellowship now boasts the longest continuous existence. The scope of Rotary Fellowships has
changed much over the years, but today their common purpose is still to unite Rotarians in
friendship and provide venues for enjoying their favorite recreational or professional activities.

The fellowship of golfers now known as the International Golfing Fellowship of Rotarians
probably began shortly after the founding of Rotary Clubs in places where golf was being
played. Such certainly was the case in Scotland, whose claim as the birthplace of golf is
reasonably well established. It was there in 1962 that the first match between Districts 101 and
728 took place on the Old Course at St. Andrews. That event has continued as an annual match
between the two Districts, alternately in Scotland and the USA.