Greg Norman's Foundation gets £10,000 from Royal & Ancient

THE Greg Norman Foundation, set up by the two-time Open champion to make professional tuition available and affordable for young golfers in Queensland, is to receive a £10,000 grant from the Royal & Ancient.

The Foundation was set up by Norman in 1988, since when it has seen the likes of Adam Scott and Karrie Webb come through its ranks.

"The Foundation conducts four to six-week golf programmes in schools, runs junior tournaments over six, nine and 18 holes, conducts sports expos, runs golf clinics, visits indigenous communities and assists disabled players," said Norman.

"Thousands of young boys and girls are introduced to the wonderful game of golf each year. I am very appreciative of the assistance given by the R&A, which will allow the Foundation to continue the good work being carried out on a daily basis."

It is the fifth initiative headed by an Open champion, on the fifth continent, to be financially assisted by the R&A. Arnold Palmer's Palmer Cup match, the Ernie Els & Fancourt Foundation and the Paul Lawrie Junior Foundation have all been awarded significant sums to assist with their work in the USA, South Africa and Scotland respectively. The R&A has also supported the Faldo Series since its inception in the late 1990s.

"Our golf development activity is funded by revenues generated by The Open, so it is fitting that we support the work of our Past Champions who are eager to give back to the game," explained Director of Golf Development Duncan Weir.

"We're delighted to be able to provide funding for these programmes which are making real differences to children's lives."