AIB has entered the world of Golf sponsorship with the appointment of Tom McKibbin and Lauren Walsh, Ireland’s rising golf prodigies as their newest brand partners.
The partnership comes at a pivotal moment for both players. McKibbin has secured his place in this week’s US Open, and Walsh moved to fourth in the Rookie of the Year standings after finishing a career-best fourth in the LET’s Jabra Ladies Open in France last month.
McKibbin, from golf stronghold Holywood, Northern Ireland, has rapidly ascended the ranks of the golfing world.
Ranked 145th in the world, the 21-year-old’s qualification for the US Open was sealed after a series of impressive performances in the qualifying rounds, showcasing his skill, determination, and commitment.
This week’s US Open will be his major championship debut after he came through final qualifying at Walton Heath last month, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
He birdied five of his last seven holes, landing into the top 9 on eight-under-par, qualifying on that mark and becoming the latest golfer added to the Irish contingent for Pinehurst, North Carolina, which starts tomorrow.
Lauren Walsh has got off to a great start during her rookie season on the Ladies European Tour.
The Castlewarden, County Kildare star recently claimed a top-10 finish at the Amundi German Masters at the Evian Resort Golf Club. She followed this performance up with and a 4th place finish at the Jabra Ladies Open in late May.
She was also recently named the official touring professional of Carton House, a Fairmont-managed hotel that will host this year’s KPMG Women’s Irish Open.
“We are delighted to welcome Lauren and Tom to the AIB team as our new brand partners,” said Cathy Bryce, Managing Director of AIB Capital Markets.
“It has been an exciting year for both golfers and we are delighted to support Tom as he competes in the upcoming US Open and Lauren as she continues to shine on the international stage.”
“This partnership underscores AIB’s commitment to fostering talent and supporting sporting excellence, be it in our own communities or representing Ireland internationally.”
“I am honoured to become a brand partner with AIB, and I am grateful for the support they have already shown me so early on,” added McKibbin.
“Their backing means a lot to me as I prepare for a huge milestone in my career with the US Open and as I continue to pursue my goals in golf and beyond. AIB’s dedication to helping people achieve their best resonates with my own ambitions, and I look forward to working together.”
Lauren Walsh shared similar sentiments, adding, “I’m thrilled to come on board as a brand partner with AIB. Since the beginning of our journey, they have been incredibly supportive and I’m delighted to officially become part of their team.”
“AIB’s support is invaluable as I progress through the ranks on the Ladies European Tour, and I’m proud to represent them throughout the season.”
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