Gary Player presented with Golf Foundation award

The Golf Foundation has recognised the work Gary Player has carried out for junior development. Notably in recent years Player has helped the Golf Foundation and the national golf partnerships in England, Scotland and Wales, by giving golf clinics to youngsters at European Tour events.

Golf Foundation President Ken Schofield CBE, former Executive Director of the European Tour, presented the award in front of a packed crowd of VIP guests from all areas of the sport. Ken spoke of the ?wonderful inspiration he [Player] has given everyone who has played the game?.

Gary Player said it was a ?great honour? to receive the award and spoke of how important it is to encourage young golfers. He remembered how his determination carried him through from poor beginnings, and he recalled the days when he first visited Scotland ? sleeping in the sand dunes of St Andrews to save money as a young professional.

The Golf Foundation is present during the whole of The Open Championship, welcoming youngsters to the R&A Junior Golf Centre in support of clubgolf, the national golf partnership for Scotland.

For a first hand perspective on the Golf Foundations event click here to visit Bill Elliot?s Open blog