Annika Appointed As One Of Golf's International Ambassadors

Below is the press release regarding the appointment.  You can read a very interesting Q & A session with Annika and Jack here regarding the goals of the IGF in this regard.

Annika Sorenstam and Jack Nicklaus have been appointed as global ambassadors by the International Golf Federation (IGF) to help the sport win a place in the Olympic Games.

Golf is one of seven sports campaigning for two spots on the program starting from the 2016 Olympics.

American Nicklaus and Swede Sorenstam, arguably the greatest male and female golfers of all time, will represent their sport at select international events, the IGF said on Thursday.

They will also support the IGF's Olympic Golf Committee, which is spearheading the bid.

"Golf truly embodies the Olympic spirit with a foundation built upon honour, integrity, dignity and sportsmanship.  I believe with its inclusion, golf can strengthen the Olympic movement throughout the world.  I'm pleased to lend my support to the cause," Nicklaus, 68, said in a statement.

Sorenstam, who ended her glittering playing career at the Dubai Ladies Masters earlier this month, said: "It is an honour and privilege to take an active role in assisting golf's bid to become an Olympic sport.
Now, as I step aside from competitive golf, a major objective of mine is to help grow the game around the world and I cna htink of no better way to grow it than through the Olympics."

Sorenstam, 38, is a 10 times major champion who has won 89 titles worldwide.

Golf is competing with karate, squash, rugby, roller sports, baseball and softball for Olympic status.

The International Olympic Committee will vote on the existing 26 sports on the programme and the inclusion of two more at its session in Copenhagen next October.

Comments

[Golf54deciple]

Geeze, what an interesting post . . . cool to see the use of a conference call to bring everybody needed for this meeting together.

Nice NOT to have to go flying somewhere!!

I found the question about what type of format would be best to be one that might bring a whole different experience. Who knows, maybe that's what will be most intriguing and challanging.

In my free time,I wouldn't mind seeing what the imagination could come up with! Hmmmm . . .

[Buzz]

I cannot think of a better team to support a cause.

Hell! I can't think of a better team, period.

Good luck in this endeavor..........

[Buzz]

I noticed, while perusing your commencement pix, that you are wearing a doctoral robe....Did you receive an honorary degree? If so, what "flavor"?

Nice pix....

[Donna]

Congratulations on being appointed Ambassador. I couldn't think of a better player to represent the definition of athlete. I will be sure to come and take lessons at the Annika Academy. I'll have to go and try a bottle of Annika wine. Merry christmas to you and a Happy New Year.

Donna P.

[Annika]

Buzz, I did not receive a honorary degree at U of A.

[Mary E.]

Annika,

What an honor to picked alongside Jack Nicklaus as an ambassador for golf - congratulations! I know you will put all your best efforts towards this goal. The Olympics would be an awesome showcase for the game of golf and who better to choose to represent the game than YOU!