PRO GOLFER SUPPORTS DARE // 17th February 2006

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Golfer Oliver Wilson has pledged his support to national anti-drugs charity DARE. The Walker Cup winner will promote the charity which seeks to educate young people on the dangers of drug, alcohol and substance abuse. Currently ranked 17th in the European Tour Order of Merit 05 – 06, Wilson is particularly interested in the DARE Sport scheme, an initiative that uses sport sessions in schools to encourage focus, motivation and self-esteem. Wilson (25) from Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, said: “DARE is fantastic because it helps young people take control, gain confidence and find ways to be successful. “I started playing golf at 10 and it gave me a real focus in life. When I look at people I knew at school it’s really clear to see who had a focus and who didn’t. I really don’t know where some of my friends would be now if they didn’t have sport.” Wilson has already travelled the world with golf, came second in the Volvo China Open and has won over £100,000 in prize money. He said: “Golf may have an elite image but I come from a normal background and play with guys from my town who could have gone either way. I really believe one of them would have been in prison if he hadn’t have started playing. That’s why I believe in DARE. It’s showing young people that there are options out there.” The pro golfer is the latest in a line of sporting celebrities that have pledged their support to DARE. Olympic athlete Goldie Sayers, Olympic swimmer Steve Parry, Olympic canoeist Campbell Walsh, and football team Notts County are just some of the stars that advocate the DARE programme in the UK. The DARE Sport scheme is run by former Olympic cyclist and silver medallist Bryan Steel. He said: “It’s great that we’re attracting such high profile support. “I am dyslexic and had a really hard time at school, then I found cycling. Suddenly I was good at something and I wanted to be the best so I worked hard at it. It gave me a path in life. “DARE Sport is great for showing young people they have these chances too.” To return to the main News page click here