Signature Property Finance, one of the UK’s leading short-term property finance providers, has announced it has agreed a new sponsorship deal with Welsh 15-year-old golf prodigy Alicia Kelly from Abergavenny, winner of last year’s Gareth Bale Championship at Celtic Manor.
Headquartered in Cardiff, Signature is keen to increase the part it plays in the local community, choosing special school Ysgol Ty Coch as its charity partner for the year, in addition to sponsoring Alicia and Pontypridd RFC.
Signature CEO Tony Gilbertson, commented: “As a short-term property finance provider we support property developers and investors across England, Scotland and Wales, but we’re proud of our Welsh heritage, employ plenty of Welsh speakers and support our community.
“Alicia is a rare talent for one so young and as with the developments we support, it is great to be involved and be part of their journey to success. Seeing her compete nationally against boys and girls, up to 18 years of age, and win is impressive, especially with our logo on her clothing.
“The support we offer goes to cover some of her travelling expenses, tournament entry fees and accommodation, which all mount up for Alicia and her father Jayde, given the number of competitions played throughout the year, in the UK and Europe.
“She trains hard on the course and in the gym and shows an unwavering dedication to the sport. Alicia sets a great example to the team here at Signature, showing what is possible with a single-minded desire to succeed and I’m pleased we can help support her dream to turn professional.”
Alicia Kelly, Welsh golf prodigy said: “When I picked up my first golf club at 2 years old, I had no idea the sport would become such a big part of my life. My entire family and especially my Dad have supported me so much over the last few years and in the future, I hope I can repay their confidence in me with a few tournament wins on the LPGA tour.
“Everything about the sport is expensive, from travelling to train with the Wales Golf U18 National Squad to clubs and the support from businesses like Signature is a great help. I hope to see more of Tony and his team as I compete this year, dedicating a trophy to Signature would be great – and may get me another sponsorship deal for next year!”
Gilbertson concludes: It was great to arrange for Alicia to play the 2010 Ryder Cup course at Celtic Manor with our brand ambassador Scott Quinnell. They played together against her father Jayde and Signature’s CCO, Thomas Howells and I was told diplomatically the match was tied on the last hole.
I’m also looking forward to ball spotting again for Alicia at the U18 Home Nations tournament in Cork this August.