The ANNIKA Women’s All Pro Tour (WAPT), the official partner of the LPGA’s Epson Tour, will host the Kathy Whitworth ‘88’ golf tournament in Trophy Club, Texas, July 17-20. Renamed to honor Kathy Whitworth’s unparalleled achievement of 88 professional wins, the most in golf history, this will be the sixth year of the event and the second year in Trophy Club
As with most golf tournaments, the sponsors are instrumental in making the event a success. And many of them are inspired by Kathy Whitworth’s desire to help young female golfers make it to the LPGA.
Capital Asset Resources, Inc., is the founding sponsor and company president Carl Wilson knows the Kathy Whitworth story well. He grew up in Lubbock and fondly remembers following her groundbreaking career in neighboring New Mexico.
“We had a connection there, even though we didn’t know each other, and you know back then, you read more about her than you got to see her on television,” he says. “The local newspapers carried stories of her success and he says it was evident “she wasn’t just a great golfer; she was a good person. And so, I had a lot of respect for her.”
As the father of three daughters and two granddaughters, Wilson sees the Kathy Whitworth ‘88’ as a tool of empowerment for young women.
“Growing up there weren’t as many opportunities for women in the golf world as there are now. It’s great to see these young ladies come in and to have the opportunity to make a living doing it, too.”
Besides providing monetary support, the company invests time and participation. Many Capital Assets employees are involved in the tournament in a variety of volunteer roles.
“It’s not mandatory, but as a group they always are glad to help and get involved,” says Wilson. “And they do whatever they can to see it succeed.”
Toby Powell, the founder of Golf Addict Apparel, is proud to be a merchandise sponsor for the tournament. A former college basketball player, Powell took up golf at the age of 30 and was immediately “hooked.” But she could never find a good golf shirt in which she felt comfortable. “It was either not the right design or it was the wrong material.” So, she designed her own shirt and, at the suggestion of her husband, started her own apparel company. Now, two years later, Golf Addict Apparel is a successful and growing enterprise.
However, the real bottom line for Powell is witnessing the professional achievement of the participants.
“I think all women athletes should have [this support.] It’s so exciting to see these young women who are playing to get their LPGA card and then, later [when they are successful] you can watch them on TV,” says Powell. “It’s so awesome.”
“Sponsors are the lifeblood of events like the Kathy Whitworth ’88,’” says Tournament Director Cathy Harbin. “This event is designed to provide a competitive experience for the pros who are playing, from Pro-Am day to final day of play. Sponsorships like those from Carl, Capital Asset Resources and Toby, Golf Addict Apparel, give these young professionals the chance to follow their dream of becoming LPGA Touring Professionals.”
There are many opportunities and levels of sponsorship available for the Kathy Whitworth ’88.’ Learn more by visiting https://kathy-whitworth-88.perfectgolfevent.com/
