When 8-year-old Anna Talbot sat down to write a letter about her favorite sport, she never imagined she would wind up playing with a golf pro and appearing on national TV to talk all about it. It’s just one of the unique opportunities offered to kids involved in The First Tee of Tampa Bay, a Tampa Y program.“It’s nice to be outside with the sun, the clouds and a breeze and to watch birds and little squirrels on trees,” wrote Anna. Little did she know she would soon be enjoying nature on the green with none other than Annika Sörenstam. The third grader entered a “Share My Passion” letter contest and was one of only 40 kids selected to win a golf clinic with one of the best female golfers in history.Anna is a part of The First Tee of Tampa BayJ.E.W.E.L.sprogram. The special all-girls group teaches the game of golf and provides social opportunities to encourage lasting friendships and confidence. “Golf can teach you to be honest, mindful, on-task, courteous and positive – even if you hit some bad shots,” explained Anna in her winning letter. “Golf can also teach you integrity which means do the right thing even when no one is watching.”Those profound words also landed Anna an invitation to appear on the GOLF Channel to share her words of wisdom. “None of these experiences can happen without all of our supporters and advocates in our community – thank you,” says Executive Director Ian Baxter. Click on the play icon above to see little Anna in action on the “Morning Drive” show.Pictured above: Click on the play icon above to watch The First Tee of Tampa Bay Program Director Mackenzie Mack and Anna Talbot, a young participant in the Tampa Y program, appear on the GOLF Channel.
