Blizard awarded Ross Herbert Scholarship
BY iseekgolf.com | 14 Mar 2008
Australian Amateur Champion Rohan Blizard has been awarded the Ross Herbert Memorial Scholarship for his golfing achievements throughout 2007/08.
Herbert was the founder and inaugural head coach of the AIS Golf Program from December 1991 until his death in 2001. That year, a memorial scholarship bearing his name was struck to commemorate his decade-long legacy and to continue the tireless work that Ross had done with promising young players.
Blizard was presented with the award at the AIS in Canberra by Donna Harwood (nee Herbert) and Casey, one of Ross and Donna’s three daughters. Federal Minister for Sport, The Hon. Kate Ellis was in attendance, as were key representatives from Golf Australia.
Blizard’s $2000 scholarship will help fund his golf travel expenses. In 2007, the 23-year old had a breakout year in which he won the Australian Amateur Championship at his home club of New South Wales, claimed leading amateur honours in the MFS Australian Open and was a key contributor in many Australian team victories including the Asia-Pacific Teams Championship, Four Nations Cup, SBS Invitational and the Juan Carlos Tailhade.
Rohan has just been selected in Australia’s Ashes team to play against England at Moonah Links from April 8-9 before he defends his Amateur title in Adelaide. Blizard then leaves for Spain with compatriot Tim Stewart as representatives of the Asia-Pacific Team in the Bonallack Trophy to be played at Valderrama Golf Club. It is certainly a busy schedule for the 23-year old, but it is potentially a taste of things to come.
Peter Knight, Director of Elite Development Golf Australia said, “Rohan is a very deserving recipient of the Ross Herbert Memorial Scholarship. He demonstrates exemplary qualities on and off the golf course in a way which Ross would have applauded.
“The next six months will be important for Rohan as he continues striving to uphold his level of performance, represent his country and fine tune his game for when he decides to turn professional. Golf Australia and the AIS wish Rohan the best of luck and look forward to helping him achieve his goals.”
