NIKE PRESS RELEASE

Aussie amateur champion Kristie
Smith turns pro with Nike

Nike Golf has today made another exciting addition to its rapidly expanding roster of talented athletes with the signing of Kristie Smith. The 20-year-old Australian turned professional last week after a highly successful amateur career and has signed a multi-year agreement to represent Nike Golf in clubs, balls, apparel, footwear, glove, accessories and bag.
Smith, who will play her first tournament as a professional at the Scandinavian TPC this week after a personal invitation from Annika Sorenstam, stunningly announced her arrival in golf this year by securing a trio of leading amateur titles Down Under - at the LG/Bing Lee NSW Open, the MFS Women’s Australian Open and the ANZ Ladies Masters.
In April she emulated her father, former Touring professional Wayne Smith, by winning the Australian amateur women's championship 25 years after he claimed his national crown.
Wayne, the 1983 Australian Amateur champion, caddied for Kristie as she won her title in the 36-hole matchplay final.
Kristie’s most recent success came two weeks ago when she won the much coveted North-South Amateur at Pinehurst CC in North Carolina. "I have had an amazing year so far and I am looking forward to the new challenges that are coming my way,'' Smith said.
“Signing with Nike Golf at the start of my career is very exciting as they are the perfect partner for a young aspiring golfer wanting to achieve the highest goals. I know that the team there will work with me to give me the very best equipment and support to help me make the transition from amateur to successful professional.”