THE Isle of Man’s top women’s golfer, who has been tipped as a potential star of the future, has received financial support from Appleby to progress her career.
Emma Harris, who became Isle of Man ladies champion at the age of only 12, first picked up a golf club at the age of seven and immediately showed a natural talent for the sport.
A student in Year 10 at QE2 High School, Emma now plays off a handicap of 2. Appleby’s support has financed a trip to the Ping factory in Leicestershire to be fitted for custom-made clubs and a smart new bag.
Emma increasingly competes off the Island, recently representing England in the Under-16’s Open Strokeplay Championship in Scotland, as part of a squad of six talented young players.
Emma has held the Isle of Man ladies championship title for the past three years, being the youngest ever winner.
She is also a member of the English Women’s Golf Association’s Select North Squad and collected no fewer than five impressive awards across the UK in her 2010 season. This year’s ladies’ championship will be held at Douglas Golf Club and will once again be sponsored by Appleby Isle of Man.
Caron Harris, said, “Emma is extremely focused and determined and always gives it her all. I had concerns as a mother when she wanted to play a full 18-hole round at the age of 8, but I need not have worried as she very happily came skipping along the 18th fairway, accompanied by her father, thoroughly enjoying herself!
“Emma has always been mature and sensible, but is also very fun-loving. As parents we are extremely proud of her. She also very rarely asks for anything, such as clothes; indeed it is me who encourages her to have things!
“She is sensible with money but of course is also aware of just how much it costs for her to be able to compete away and she gives it 100% on the golf course. Emma’s delighted with her new golf clubs and we are so grateful to Appleby for their financial support.”
Sean Dowling, managing partner at Appleby Isle of Man, said, “We are delighted to be able to support this very talented young lady, and are acutely aware of the costs involved in travelling off-island to take part in competitions like the Junior Opens.
“It is important that we don’t allow the Island’s relative geographic isolation to limit the success of our local sporting heroes and heroines. We hope this support will assist Emma in her Isle of Man, County and National events and we warmly wish her every success for her bright future.”
