Midland, Texas, May 27, 2015 – World Golf Hall of Fame member Judy Rankin announced today the formation of her charitable fund, the JTR Suitcase Fund, benefitting young girls 10-18 years old who play and compete in golf. The fund’s mission is to support young girls in making golf a game for life and removing hurdles necessary for them to play and compete at a local, regional, and national level.
The history of the fund dates back to her earliest years as a junior golfer in St. Louis, Mo. where members of a local 9-hole club allowed her to practice and play. There she received instruction from the Triple A club pro and her father.
At age 8, she entered her first national event, The National Pee Wee Championship in Orlando, Fla. Prior to her trip, the Triple A members presented Rankin with a new suitcase containing $400 for she and her father to travel to Orlando. This turned out to be the first of many wins for Judy, and she has never forgotten the generosity of the people in her community. This experience laid the foundation for what is one of the most recognized and accomplished golf resumes in the world.
“You look back on your life and how things came to be and this was one of those things,” said Rankin. “I hope with the fund, I too can help young girls pursue the game and enjoy the wonderful experiences that it brings.”
Rankin’s vision is to support young girls who play and reside in areas of the country which are more isolated and game development more challenging because of the need to travel. Girls will be identified through strategic partnerships and programs within golf organizations. The fund will begin in west Texas and expand to broader regional and national venues over time.
The JTR Suitcase Fund Board of Directors includes Judy Rankin as President, her son Tuey Rankin as Vice President, Paula Bettis as Secretary/Treasurer, and golf industry veteran, George Roat as Executive Director. Also involved in fund development are nationally acclaimed PGA professional, Mike Schultz and industry marketing executive, Barb Kauffman.
“As many know, Judy’s reputation speaks for itself,” said George Roat, Executive Director. “We have talked with several golf associations and organizations and they are excited about the JTR Suitcase Fund and feel there is a real need for this type of support for young girls looking to pursue the game and live in geographical areas such as Judy’s.”
For more information regarding the JTR Suitcase Fund contact:
George Roat, Executive Director, jtrsuitcasefund@gmail.com. 432-553-2888
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