Honoured to be part of IGF board, says Dilip

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Dilip Thomas, council member of the Indian Golf Union (IGU), will sit on the International Golf Federation’s (IGF) board of directors, which will oversee golf’s re-introduction into the Olympics in 2016.

“I am honoured to serve on the board of directors of the International Golf Federation,” said Thomas. “Golf’s reintroduction to the Olympics will provide a channel for the sport to grow manifold throughout the world and no more so than here in India where the game’s potential is so huge,” he added.

IGF’s executive director Antony Scanlon said the experience of Dilip will be of great help. “When the IGF board of directors was established we aimed to draw on expertise throughout the golf world. Dilip brings with him a great deal of experience not just from his tenure with the IGU but also the years he has served as the secretary general of the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation. I am sure he will do a great job,” said Antony.

Meanwhile, Manjit Singh, president of the Indian Golf Union added that it was a proud moment for India and the move will definitely help golf’s growth in the country.

“We are very proud that an Indian in Mr Dilip Thomas has been nominated on the board of The International Golf Federation. The opportunity will give worldwide recognition to Indian golf and will also go a long way in promoting golf in India,” said Manjith.

The IGF is recognised by the International Olympics Committee as the international federation for golf.

Established in 1958, the IGF was formed to encourage the international development of golf. In 2008, with support from across the amateur and professional game, golf’s bid for re-introduction into the prestigious event was shaped.

The goal was realised in October 2009 when the IOC confirmed golf’s participation during the 2016 Olympics.

An official announcement stated that there will also be a senior official from the LPGA (an appointment will be made shortly to replace Jane Geddes who formally held the post).