Golfing great to be honoured

One of the most respected woman golfers of the last 40 years is to be honoured by the University of St Andrews.

Renee Powell, a pioneering player, coach, educator and goodwill ambassador will be awarded an honorary degree by the University this summer.

It will be the first such award for Renee, who is one of only three African American women to have played on the Ladies Professional Golf Association’s (LPGA) Tour.

Renee was taught to play golf at the age of three by her father William, and has played competitively from the age of twelve. After becoming a champion at national Junior level, she turned professional in 1967.  Renee’s distinguished 13-year professional career saw her play golf in more than 250 tournaments around the world.

Since 1980 Renee has taught golf in the United States, Africa and Europe and is currently head professional golfer at Clearview Golf Course in Ohio.  Clearview is the only golf course in the US that is designed, owned and operated by an African American, Renee’s father, William Powell.

Renee will be made a Doctor of Laws (LLD) on Wednesday 25 June 2008.

Commenting on the news, she said, “To receive an Honorary Doctorate is in itself such an honour – this is my first honorary degree and to receive it from the University of St Andrews, I am truly humbled. I am very honoured too to be one of just a handful of golfers to receive an Honorary Doctorate from the University, all who I have the utmost respect for – and to be the first female golfer is incredible.”

It will be a return visit to St Andrews for Renee, who delivered a public lectured entitled `The Many Faces of Women’s Golf’ at the University last summer.

Describing the home of golf as a ‘magical’ place, Renee commented, “I absolutely love St Andrews.  Last year was my third trip there and I am so glad to be returning again this year.  When I walk around St Andrews, I realise how very fortunate I am to have been taught the game of golf and to play to such a level that has allowed me the opportunity to travel to St Andrews and the “Home of Golf” – the beginning of my sport.”

ENDS

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Issued by the Press Office, University of St Andrews
Contact Gayle Cook, Press Officer on 01334 467227 / 462529, mobile 07900 050 103, or email [email protected]
Ref:  Renee Powell 220408
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