Golf New Zealand has announced the successful re-launch and rebranding of a key charitable entity, now officially known as the Bob Charles Foundation (BCF). Registered as a Charitable Trust, the Foundation, which was originally established in 2013 as the New Zealand Golf Foundation, is embracing the motto ‘Golf for Life’ and refocusing its mission to support grassroots participation, particularly among women and girls.
The BCF is honoured to secure golf legend Sir Bob Charles as its Patron.
Sir Bob, New Zealand’s only winner of a men’s major, expressed his enduring commitment to the sport’s development: “I was pleased to originally provide funds to support Golf New Zealand by way of a percentage of my earnings from play on the then Senior Tour. These funds have now been contributed to the re-launched Foundation,” he stated. “Over the years, income from this fund has helped many young professional players develop their playing skills.”
Shift to Grassroots Growth
While the initial focus was on nurturing aspiring professionals, the re-launched Foundation is now pivoting toward participation. Since its incorporation in July of this year, the BCF has actively provided grants to clubs and entities dedicated to transitioning participants from the highly successful She Loves Golf initiative into full club membership.
These subsidised programmes are specifically designed to assist women and girl golfers of all ages in taking the crucial step from practice facilities and ranges onto the golf course, with the ultimate goal of becoming club members. This year’s grant recipients include Chisholm Links, The Christchurch Golf Club, Taupo Golf Club, and initiatives at the Sir Bob Charles Golf Centre.
Steven Alker Lends Star Power
Adding significant support to the Foundation’s visibility is New Zealand professional Steven Alker, who has kindly agreed to become the BCF Ambassador. Alker, who has enjoyed a stellar 2025 season on the PGA Tour Champions, is proudly displaying the Foundation’s logo on his golf bag during competition.
Sir Bob Charles personally acknowledged Alker’s contribution, emailing the champion golfer to say, “Thank you for coming on board and featuring my name and the Foundation logo on your bag.”
Golf New Zealand extended its thanks to Alker for his support, wishing him continued success on the PGA Tour Champions.
New Leadership and Future Goals
The Foundation’s leadership is spearheaded by Chair Geoff Saunders, a former Golf New Zealand Board member and former New Zealand Open Chairman.
“It is great to observe so many happy and motivated women and girl golfers enjoying programmes subsidised by the Foundation,” said Saunders. He also noted that initiatives are currently underway to increase both the capital and income of the Foundation to expand its reach.
Recent appointments to the Trust Board include Michael Rondel, the new Chair of Golf New Zealand; John Griffin, a Southland-based professional; and PGA Tour winner, commentator, and course designer Phillip Tataurangi.
For more information on the Bob Charles Foundation and its grant opportunities, please contact Geoff Saunders at geoff@thegolfcompany.co.nz.
