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Voices of Satisfaction - Part I
11 October 2009
Ty Votaw, Executive Director of the International Golf Federation Olympic Golf Committee:
“We are elated that the IOC membership has accepted golf as an Olympic sport, and look forward to seeing the world’s best golfers compete for gold at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
“We strongly believed that golf deserved to be added to the Olympic Programme and felt that we presented a compelling case to the IOC.
“We have received unprecedented support from international golf organisations throughout this process, as well as from the world’s top-ranked men and women players, which was critical to our success. We also stressed the universal nature of golf, with 60 million people playing the sport in more than 120 countries.
“We thank the IOC for its support, and also congratulate rugby sevens for its inclusion in the 2016 Games.”
Peter Dawson, Joint Secretary of the International Golf Federation:
“In addition to those golfers who will have an opportunity to compete as Olympic athletes, we are excited for the national golf federations that will reap the benefits from today’s decision in terms of growth and support within their countries.
“This is a very significant day for golf.”
Michelle Wie, USA, top golfer:
“I can dream about doing something that neither Tiger [Woods] nor Ernie [Els] have ever done. And that is to make the final putt to win an Olympic gold medal.”
Tiger Woods, USA, top golfer:
“I think it’s great for golf.
“It’s a perfect fit for the Olympics, and I think we are all looking forward to golf getting into the Olympics.
“This will be a new experience for golfers who get to participate in the Olympics. Having talked to other athletes who have gotten a chance to experience the Olympics, they have absolutely loved it and had the greatest time.”
