Golf Industry Central Autumn 2014 | Page 9

Industry News LYDIA KO BECOMES FIRST TEE NEW TRUSTEE Children’s charity The First Tee has announced its new Ambassador will be golfing sensation Lydia Ko. The 16-year-old, who is the World No.4, recently took supreme honours at the Halberg Awards and finished third equal at the Australian Women’s Open. Ko will join Phil Tataurangi, who is also an Ambassador and Deputy Chair of The First Tee New Zealand. The charity, which began in the USA, aims to teach children strong personal values such as respect, courtesy and integrity through the game of golf. Its value programme, taught in schools and golfing facilities, provides a powerful tool for all children to develop strong character. Since its establishment in NZ in 2005, it has continued to grow reaching more than 10,000 Kiwi kids. David Hisco, The First Tee Chairman, said: “Lydia Ko is one of New Zealand’s best and brightest young sportspeople and we’re absolutely thrilled to have her on board as our Ambassador. “Lydia is a true example of someone living The First Tee values, not just in how she plays golf but also in how she lives her life off the course.” Lydia Ko said she was thrilled to join The First Tee as an Ambassador. “The game of golf has taught me a lot,” said the Gulf Harbour golfer. “It’s my hope that my involvement with The First Tee will inspire more children to take up the game and discover that through perseverance, sticking to their goals, and lots of practice, that they can achieve their dreams as well.” Golf Industry Central Autumn 2014 7