R&A gives £25,000 back to Paul
Lawrie Junior Foundation in NE

PRESS RELEASE ISSUED BY R&A
The R&A has increased its financial backing of the Paul Lawrie Foundation in response to the continued success of the programme. The foundation, which supports junior golf in the north-east of Scotland, has been awarded £25,000 to cover both 2008 and 2009.
Lawrie, a native Aberdonian, is dedicated to developing junior golf and was pleased to accept the grant. “I’m extremely grateful for the increased support of this programme,” said Lawrie, “It’s a big boost knowing that The R&A are as dedicated as I am to the development of the junior game in Scotland.”
The scheme focuses on the enjoyment that playing the game brings and uses fun games and competitions throughout the year to encourage the participants’ development. The largest of the competitions, the Paul Lawrie Flag Finals and U16/U18 Open, was held at Deeside Golf Club in September with 160 youngsters aged between nine and eighteen competing.

The 1999 Open Champion aims to encourage the youngsters to develop a work ethic that will improve both their golf and their academic achievement.

“I would never have won The Open at Carnoustie without putting in countless hours of practice,” Lawrie said, “and I hope that the Foundation will instil in these juniors a similar level of commitment in all aspects of their lives.”

The R&A also supports junior golf programmes in Carnoustie and St Andrews, which, like the Paul Lawrie Foundation, are aimed at encouraging local children to take up the game. Director of Golf Development at The R&A, Duncan Weir, believes that it is important to provide golfing opportunities to children in Scotland.

“Supporting junior golf here in Scotland, where we are based, is a key aspect of The R&A’s work,” said Weir, “and we’re glad to be able to provide funding for schemes that are increasing participation and enjoyment in the junior game.”