Golf Foundation spreading Get into Golf message during Open’s return to Portrush

Tyrrell Hatton in the R&A Swingzone helping the Golf Foundation’s Get into Golf programme
Buckinghamshire’s Tyrrell Hatton in the R&A Swingzone encouraging kids to take up golf during last year’s Open at Carnoustie. Lots of events are taking place at Royal Portrush.

THE Golf Foundation is spending this week at Royal Portrush helping to spread the Get into Golf message during the 148th Open Championship.

The Claret Jug’s return to Northern Ireland for the first time in 68 years has seen the Golf Foundation working alongside hosts The R&A to get more youngsters playing golf.

The Spectator Village has been the focus of attention for the practice days so far, with the R&A Swingzone mannged by club professionals, who are members of the PGA, from all over the UK.

They have been introducing kids to Tri-Golf, the specially adapted game that can be played in the school playground, with special skill challenges for the game that using Velcro tagged balls and archery-style targets plus plastic clubs, which some 500,000 pupils a year enjoy.

Family members have been able to enjoy the Titleist Putting Challenge.

Golf lovers of all ages have the chance every day to win one of eight top-of-the-range Scotty Cameron putters in the unique putting challenge, along with Titleist golf balls and caps.

Sixteen organised groups of children from regional golf clubs, school and charity projects have been invited to the SwingZone before going on to watch the stars of world golf out on the famous Dunluce links.

HSBC ambassadors – rugby legend Brian O’Driscoll and retired tennis ace Tim Henman – are set to make a number of visits to the Swingzone during the week.

The Golf Foundation’s programme at The Open follows The R&A’s recent decision to strengthen its support of the charity’s work, including an investment of £2 million over the next four years.

Golf Foundation chief executive Brendon Pyle said: “The considerable support of The R&A reaches all aspects of our work, all-year round.

“However, by backing our team so well at The Open Championship, this presents a wonderful and unique opportunity to inspire the next generation of enthusiastic young golfers.”

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