Action for Children has been named national charity partner of the Solheim Cup.
A partnership between a charity and a major golf tournament will help more children across Scotland participate in sports.
Action for Children launched the Solheim Cup Legacy Fund on Wednesday, 50 days before the tournament begins at Gleneagles.
All monies raised through the fund will be used to buy sporting equipment and pay for travel, lessons and club memberships for young people around the country.
The announcement comes after Action for Children was named as the Solheim Cup’s national charity partner.
Paul Carberry, the charity’s director, said: “Through our work across Scotland, we hear from young people we support about the barriers they can face to participating in sport.
“We are keen to work with the Scottish Government and Sportscotland to ensure this Solheim Cup Legacy Fund builds on the activity already being undertaken by partners to address those types of barriers. For many young people, the cost of participating in sport can be challenging, however we are keen through this fund to help support young people to not only participate in sport but enjoy the many social benefits.
“We are looking forward to working in partnership with government, at national and local level, as well as with clubs and communities to make sure that sport is as accessible, affordable and as inclusive as possible so that young people get the chance to live healthy and fun lives.
“You never know, we may also uncover the next Scottish sporting star.”
Communities secretary Aileen Campbell MSP added: “An active lifestyle is important to health but taking part in sport and activities has many benefits that go beyond the physical. Confidence, well-being, developing and improving life skills – this fund will help break down barriers so children, young people and families can reap all the rewards of taking part in sports such as golf.
“We know that some young people in communities are less likely to participate in sport and physical activity so it is a privilege to help start 10 young people on their active journey by giving them the first access to sport packs.
“Crucially, the fund won’t end with the Solheim Cup so I am looking forward to seeing it grow and provide many more young people with an opportunity to join in the fun.”
The Solheim Cup is a women’s golf tournament contested every two years by teams from Europe and the USA.
