North East golfer Jess Baker is seeking regional business partners to help her compete globally.
Having joined the prestigious Ladies European Tour (LET) earlier this year, the 22-year-old is eager to collaborate with businesses committed to promoting women’s golf in the region.
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The 2022 Women’s Amateur Champion is presenting a unique package of branding opportunities to companies who are ready to connect with local communities.
Ms Baker, who was born in Newcastle, said: “I’m very proud to represent the North East and I recognise that I’m stepping into that role on the LET now.”
She added that her job allows her to celebrate her roots on a global scale and now she wants to give something back to the businesses that support her.
The golfer has just completed back-to-back competitions in Holland, Switzerland, and Spain, and will soon head to Czechia and Germany.
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Ms Baker said that with the backing of businesses in the region, she is preparing for her biggest summer yet with renewed assurance.
Some of the businesses already supporting Jess in her LET commitments include the Newcastle-based wealth managers, Tier One Capital, and charter flight specialist NALJets.
Earlier this year, she was announced as Close House Golf Club’s attached Ladies Tour Professional.
The Newcastle club provides ongoing support both on and off the course.
Ian McElroy, chief executive of Tier One Capital, said: “Working with Jess is an absolute pleasure and as a Newcastle-based business she adds real value to our regional brand values and our company-wide commitment to grassroots sport.
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“Her enthusiasm for her sport is infectious.”
Sir Graham Wylie, owner of Close House, also said: “Jess is an excellent role model and the perfect ambassador for Close House and the North East.
“It’s wonderful to see her taking the LET in her stride and showcasing our region to the rest of the world.”
Having graduated from the University of Central Florida with a BSc in Psychology, Ms Baker is enthusiastic about encouraging more women and girls to take up golf.
She said: “Tour life certainly has its challenges and I wouldn’t have the opportunities that I do without the financial support I’ve been able to secure.”
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She also added how her early support from Sport Newcastle and The Northumberland Ladies Golf Association was instrumental in her journey.
She said: “Encouraging kids from a young age to take up the game is a no-brainer really.
“Golf gives you so many life skills.”
Jess has taken on more of an ambassadorial role on tour, recognising the value she can add to the region that has always supported her ambition.
Thanks to Close House, she has a base close to home that sets the standard for golf on Tyneside.
She said: “It’s been a big boost to have Close House on board.”
“The facilities are second to none and having access to those facilities is an essential part of my job.”
Finally, she expressed her aim to be more involved with junior and ladies clinics as her season slows down towards the end of the year, with the goal of encouraging more women and girls into golf.
