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The R&A continues support for Faldo Series

The R&A is maintaining its support of the Faldo Series, the leading global junior golf series founded by six-time major champion Sir Nick Faldo.

The R&A

28 Jul 22

3 mins

Support for the Series over the next three years will continue to play a crucial role in furthering the development of junior golf and provide young players with bigger and better opportunities to learn.

The R&A has provided funding to the Faldo Series since its inception in 1996 and it was the first named player initiative to be supported by the governing body. Over 45,000 participants, aged 12-21-years-old, have competed since the Series began. Notable alumni include the 2014 Champion Golfer Rory McIlroy, 2016 Masters champion Danny Willett, as well as Tour professionals including Megan Khang, Carly Booth, Joaquín Niemann, Eddie Pepperell and Rashid Khan.

Global appeal

Established in the UK, the Series has expanded to Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and South America. Dedicated to ‘Developing Tomorrow’s Champions’, the Series now features around 40 tournaments each year, visiting 30 countries – including less-developed golf nations. With a focus on rebuilding in Europe and Asia this year given the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Series sees 5,000 boys and girls competing each year. The Series is also piloting a younger age group category for Under-12s in 2022.

“I would like to thank The R&A for their unwavering support of the Faldo Series,” said Sir Nick Faldo. “They have been a major partner for 25 years and their support has helped underpin the success of the Series, particularly in growing the game. I'm delighted they have pledged their support for a further three years in what is an exciting time for the Faldo Series and the game in general.”

Record numbers

Phil Anderton, Chief Development Officer at The R&A, said, “The R&A has been a supporter of the Faldo Series for many years and we are pleased to continue that backing. “We have seen the impact the Series has made by providing competitive opportunities for boys and girls around the world and helping their development. With record numbers now playing golf worldwide, we hope the work of Sir Nick and his team can also continue to boost participation in golf and give a platform to young people.” The Faldo Series is recognised as a global amateur series for boys and girls, giving competitors the opportunity to play in World Amateur Golf Ranking® counting events, while testing themselves against the very best juniors worldwide. The R&A provides funding from the proceeds of The Open to support the development of golf around the world. These grants aim to advance participation in the sport by providing playing facilities and equipment and by funding golf events, coaching programmes and projects to promote the health benefits of golf.