Ian Baker-Finch is famous for winning the 1991 British Open and for being one of Australia’s finest international golfers over the past four decades.

But he’s equally revered for his integrity, his knowledge of the game, his passion for golf – and for being a thorough gentleman.

That, more than anything, is why the Invincibles Sunshine Coast Junior Golfing Tour is so proud that Ian has agreed to become an Ambassador for the Tour. And the feeling is clearly mutual. “I’m very happy to be a part of the Invincibles Tour,” Ian said. “It gives the kids an opportunity to improve their skills, and improve their life skills, as well. Ian is an admirer of Graeme Miller, who founded the Invincibles Tour and remains its president. “Graeme has been a fantastic help to junior golf, and a great role model for kids on the Sunshine Coast,” Ian said. “I’m pleased to support the Tour on the Sunshine Coast and wherever else it travels. The kids really appreciate what the Tour does.”

Ian is a true Sunshine Coaster. Born in Nambour, he grew up in Peachester and Beerwah, and worked at the Gympie and Caloundra clubs before launching his touring career. When he’s not in the US, he lives at Mooloolaba and is a member of Twin Waters golf club. His own event, the Ian Baker-Finch Junior Classic, is a part of the Invincibles Tour, having last year moved to Twin Waters after 23 years at Beerwah, where Ian played most of his junior golf. The change of venue – and date- means that Ian can attend the event after completing his commitments in the United States where he is renowned as one of golf’s finest television commentators.

In 2015 the winners of my Ian Baker-Finch Classic earned the right to compete in the Aaron Baddeley International Junior Championship. The winning girl received a start in the Australian Ladies Masters at Royal Pines, and the winning boy plays in the final qualifying stage for the Queensland Open. “We need to get these young golfers competing, improving their skills, and sending them off to the world stage to compete against the best. It’s good to see the kids getting that opportunity,” Ian said.

“Golf remains a game for life and one of the great legacies of Australian golf is in the terrific support provided to junior golfers. The Invincibles Tour on the Sunshine Coast is a great example of a programme to promote and develop junior golf. The Invincibles Tour is professionally run and aside from protecting the spirit and etiquette of the game it provides a spirit of fun and enjoyment so everyone can enjoy the experience. An introduction to the game of golf teaches the children great life skills and values such as honesty, integrity, sportsmanship and courtesy. The Invincibles Tour serves to reinforce these values and I am proud to lend my name to support this programme and to assist in any small way I can”.