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15-year-old standout, winner of the Gareth Bale Championship, backed for another season of competition
Signature Property Finance has renewed its sponsorship of rising golf talent Alicia Kelly, a 15-year-old from Abergavenny who continues to make waves in junior golf. Kelly, who won last year’s Gareth Bale Championship at Celtic Manor, will receive support from the Cardiff-based lender as she competes across the UK and Europe this season.
A Local Company Supporting Local Talent
Signature, a short-term property finance provider headquartered in Cardiff, says the sponsorship is part of its ongoing commitment to the Welsh community. In addition to supporting Kelly, the company is also backing Pontypridd RFC and has chosen special school Ysgol Ty Coch as its charity partner for the year.
“Alicia is a rare talent for someone so young,” said Signature CEO Tony Gilbertson. “It’s great to be part of her journey, just as we are with the property developers we work with. Watching her take on national competitions against older players—and win—is genuinely impressive.”
Helping Fund a Promising Future
Signature’s sponsorship helps cover the cost of travel, tournament entry fees, and accommodation—expenses that quickly add up for Kelly and her father Jayde as they travel for competitions throughout the year.
“She trains hard both on the course and in the gym, and her dedication is inspiring,” Gilbertson added. “She’s a great role model and we’re proud to support her dream of turning professional.”
Alicia’s Eyes on the LPGA
Reflecting on her journey, Kelly shared: “When I picked up my first golf club at two years old, I didn’t know how important the sport would become in my life. My family—especially my dad—has been so supportive, and I hope to make them proud by eventually winning on the LPGA tour.”
She acknowledged the financial challenges of the sport and said the backing from Signature makes a big difference. “Training, travel, equipment—it all adds up. Support from businesses like Signature is a big help. I’d love to dedicate a trophy to them this season… it might even earn me another year of sponsorship!”
A Memorable Match and Upcoming Competitions
As part of the partnership, Kelly recently teed off at the 2010 Ryder Cup course at Celtic Manor in a friendly match alongside former rugby international and Signature brand ambassador Scott Quinnell. They played against her father and Signature’s Chief Commercial Officer, with the match ending in a light-hearted tie.
Gilbertson also plans to attend the U18 Home Nations tournament in Cork this August, where he’ll be volunteering as a ball spotter during Kelly’s rounds.
