England Golf Urgently Requests Treasury Backing for 2030 Women's Golf Showcase Hosting Proposal
The most recent European vs US women's golf contest taking place in Europe took place in Spain last year, with the next tournament set for Holland four years from now.
In the wake of Europe's recent men's golf championship victory, England Golf is calling on the government to guarantee its bid to host the Solheim Cup in the country for the very first occasion.
This renowned competition between the best women players from Europe and America has taken place on two occasions in Scotland and in Wales but never in England. A bid has been put together to stage it at The Grove within Hertfordshire eight years from now.
However planners are seeking £30m to finance this proposal and at present only £10m is in place. England Golf is urgently seeking Treasury support to guarantee the remaining amount.
Financial Requirements and Deadline
Negotiations to obtain public funding began in early spring but a decision on whether support will be provided is urgently needed. The rights for the 2030 tournament belong to IMG who want an answer before month's end.
Per the bid document, the organizing committee asserts that winning the hosting rights "provides huge value for the country".
Leadership Perspective
"We are convinced presently it's appropriate for the Solheim Cup should be hosted on English soil," stated the CEO of England Golf.
He added: "We've provided so many players over time and continue to do so, whether it's Charley Hull, national team members, or rising stars."
Economic Benefits and Effects
Regarding the benefit for public funds, the executive noted: "We've just seen the type of effect that huge golf events can generate regarding both local and national economies."
He elaborated: "This is definitely what we expect may transpire through hosting this event, whether it's the expenditure that would occur during and surrounding the event or the new positions."
- Boost to regional economy
- Work opportunities
- Enhanced tourism
- More players taking up the sport
Gender Equality Dimension
"Women in sport is exactly exactly where we should be focusing at present, ensuring that sports become fair opportunity for all athletes," he stressed.
"We've seen what the Ryder Cup helps golf. We've seen the effect of the Ryder Cup does for the men's game."
Location Details
The proposed location is situated near Watford and is perfectly located to attract spectators from Greater London.
This facility has previously hosted major golf events and boasts hotel facilities commensurate with the standards for hosting an event such as this caliber.
Funding Breakdown
To organize the men's tournament on European soil requires more than £400m but for the women's event the requirement is about £30m.
"We're looking for approximately twenty million pounds from the government to support the bid," the executive confirmed.
"This amount in addition to existing substantial funding from The Grove and ourselves including further investors we intend to put money in."
Urgent Timeline
The executive would not state that talks have reached an impasse, but admitted: "Undoubtedly there is a quandary currently with regards to if the Treasury can support premier competitions."
"Previous examples demonstrate, from international sports, or from the women's rugby perspective, that they are prepared to invest public money for certain events."
"In my opinion should we receive supportive decision within the next month, we could to obtain the Solheim Cup to come to England."
He concluded: "We currently lack the financial backing at present; our proposal cannot proceed. The situation could transform tomorrow with the thumbs up, but it really is on a tight time frame."
Official Stance
The government's manifesto before the last election stated commitment to organizing international events and seeking additional chances to motivate young people of talent and supporting sports participation.
Following inquiries for comment, a representative for the Department of Media, Culture and Sport commented: "Britain enjoys global recognition for staging major sporting events and we aim to preserve this status."
"Organizing competitions nationally motivates communities, encourages participation and enhances community prosperity."
"We have a strong pipeline of events soon, including cricket events two years from now including supporting a bid to host major tournaments in the future."
"Backing for future bids will be based on various elements including how far they help create public and economic returns for Britain."