dec10 brighty
Last updated:
Former Premiership star Mark Bright has become a golfing missionary after shipping hundreds of clubs to Africa – with the help of the Professional Golfers’ Association.
The ex-Crystal Palace and Sheffield Wednesday striker’s Golf in The Gambia project received a welcome boost as he collected a car-full of golf equipment after a flying visit to the PGA’s Belfry headquarters.
“It was great of the PGA to help the project like this,” said Bright, who is now a BBC pundit.
“I’ve counted about 92 clubs and there were so many bags I couldn’t fit them all in my car!”
The 45-year-old started the project two years ago after visiting The Gambia with his family and playing at the former British colony’s only golf club, Fajara.
“After I’d finished playing the caddies’ representative asked if I could help them as they wanted to play themselves,” explained Bright.
“But they had no clubs and had to rely on the members’ to use their clubs for competitions.
“I asked what he wanted and he said clubs, I decided the best thing I could do would be to collect old gear and send it over to them.”
Since it’s launch there has been no looking back as Bright’s project has captured the imagination of many with clubs from all over the UK donating old equipment – and the PGA were only too willing to play their part.
“Having heard about Mark’s project we were keen to help out,” said Gary Jackson, business skills development manager at the PGA.
“Mark’s personal commitment to the project was clear to see, as he took the time to make a special journey to the PGA Training Academy at The Belfry to collect the equipment personally.
“We all appreciate how fortunate we are having access to good equipment and facilities and know how much pleasure we get out of playing golf.
“So, if equipment that seems out-dated to us can help others to get some enjoyment from this great game, then we are only too glad to get involved. We hope to do more in future.
“I’m sure the people who benefit from this scheme must really appreciate his efforts.”
To find out more about Golf in The Gambia visit www.gambiagolf.co.uk
