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| Backed by the UGA’s 100-year legacy of advocacy and advancement, the Sapphire Golf Tour is more than a competition — it is a movement. The series will provide a national platform for professional tour players including collegiate players including special exemptions for juniors to compete, earn, and gain visibility as they work toward LPGA and international tour status. “As a Black woman in this industry, being part of an initiative that uplifts and empowers other Black women is truly special,” said Lisa Anders, Managing Director of the Sapphire Golf Tour. “The Sapphire Golf Tour is more than a series of events; it’s a movement that ensures Black women in golf are seen, heard, and celebrated on a national stage.” The Sapphire Golf Tour is specifically designed for professional players, creating a platform where they can compete for substantial purses and gain the recognition they deserve. In addition to the professional tour, the Sapphire Golf Tour will soon introduce a collegiate series, offering HBCU and current collegiate golfers the chance to earn WAGR points and further develop their skills by competing in these events. “We’re not just launching a tour — we’re launching futures,” said Tarek DeLavallade, Executive Director of the United Golfers Association. “This is about transforming the landscape of professional golf and creating opportunities for Black women that have been long overdue.” The inaugural event at Country Club at Woodmore will kick off with a Charity Golf Classic on August 25th, followed by the professional tour competition on August 26th and 27th. Golf enthusiasts and supporters are invited to join this historic event and be part of a new chapter in golf history. Founded in 1925, the United Golfers Association (UGA) has been a cornerstone in the history of Black golf, serving as a springboard for legendary golfers of the 1950s and 1960s. Today, the UGA continues that legacy by nurturing the next generation of talent through a variety of impactful initiatives. The annual UGA Invitational, held every February at the renowned Innisbrook Resort, stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence and celebration of Black golf history. In addition, the UGA’s National Golf Team provides elite juniors with year-round coaching, mentorship, and competitive opportunities, ensuring a robust pipeline of talented Black golfers. The launch of the Sapphire Golf Tour is our latest milestone, dedicated to creating a national platform for Black women in professional golf. The UGA also offers a Masterclass Series, providing educational resources and professional development for our members, as well as a variety of membership options that allow supporters to join in our mission of growing the game and fostering diversity in golf. For more information, visit [www.SapphireGolfTour.com] or contact Angel Waldron at angel@sapphiregolftour.com. |
