January 24, 2011; Phoenix, Arizona — PING announced it has re-signed Lorena Ochoa to continue their long-term relationship as a global representative for the equipment manufacturer. Since retiring from the LPGA Tour last April as the world’s #1 female golfer, her golf-related focus has been on the Lorena Ochoa Foundation, the Ochoa Golf Academies, and the Lorena Ochoa Invitational LPGA tournament in her hometown of Guadalajara, Mexico.
“Lorena means so much to the game of golf, but she means even more to underprivileged children in her native Mexico,” said John Solheim, PING Chairman and CEO. “She is the symbol of class and grace and she gives hope to so many, not just by generating money but with her leadership.”
Solheim continued, “Lorena is a source of inspiration by doing what she set out to do after she retired – to improve lives and bring golf to non-traditional areas both in Mexico and the U.S. Those are ideals that PING shares.”
PING actively supports Ochoa’s many causes and has maintained a close connection with the star since officially signing her to an endorsement agreement in 2007, though Ochoa has relied on PING equipment since her teens.
“PING has always been very generous and worked hard promoting women’s golf,” Ochoa said. “Their equipment helped me to win many tournaments going all the way back to juniors, but our relationship goes much deeper. They are always there to lend a hand when I need it, no questions asked. PING is an important part of my team.”
For decades, PING has been an ardent advocate for women’s golf, is the founding sponsor of The Solheim Cup, and is one of the most-played equipment brands on the LPGA Tour. Ochoa was PING’s most visible presence on Tour throughout a dominating career in which she set numerous scoring records. She spent 156 consecutive weeks atop the world rankings and won 27 times, including two majors. Ochoa retired from the LPGA at age 28.
Contact:
Pete Samuels
(602) 687-5487.
