IMG secures partnership between championship and charity

18 October 2009 | Posted in Sponsorship, Golf | By Adam Fraser

IMG has secured an agreement with Volvo that will see the Seve Ballesteros Foundation, Spain, become the official charity of the Volvo World Match Play Championship.

All proceeds of fundraising activities linked to the competition and a contribution from Volvo will go towards the foundation's objectives of 'fighting cancer, researching brain tumours and providing opportunities in golf for youngsters from a similarly disadvantaged backgrounds as the golfing great who was struck down by a brain tumour almost exactly a year ago.'

Ballesteros, one of the greatest golfers of all time, won a total of 87 titles worldwide in his career. He will attend the event, along with Ryder Cup captains Colin Montgomerie and Corey Pavin.

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"The World Match Play Championship is very special to me – it is a tournament I won five times so I am particularly delighted that the event is partnering with my Foundation," Ballesteros told IMG. "I am so happy this great tournament has moved to Spain and if my health allows me, I am looking forward to being there later this month, and to spend time with my friends Colin and Corey.

"I also want to take this opportunity to thank Volvo and Per Ericsson for all the support the Seve Ballesteros Foundation and I are receiving from their side."

Guy Kinnings, director of golf, IMG, EAME, added: "This is one of the strongest fields we have ever gathered for the World Match Play Championship and we are delighted that Volvo will be able to celebrate the inaugural year of their partnership with such a strong line-up."