Rising stars McKibbin and Walsh become latest AIB Brand Partners
PRESS RELEASE: Tuesday, June 11, 2024
AIB is proud to welcome the appointment of Tom McKibbin and Lauren Walsh, two of Ireland’s rising golf stars as their latest brand partners. The partnerships come at a key moment for both Tom and Lauren, with Tom set to compete in this week’s US Open at Pinehurst and Lauren currently fourth in the Rookie of the Year standings after a career-best fourth in the LET’s Jabra Ladies Open in France last month.
Holywood golfer McKibbin has already made his mark in the game with his maiden DP World Tour win at the 2023 Porsche European Open. He will make his Major debut at this week’s US Open after coming through final qualifying at Walton Heath in England last month. The 21-year-old birdied five of his last seven holes to secure his place in this week’s prestigious field in North Carolina.
It’s been a successful start to the year for Walsh, who was recently named the Touring Professional for Carton House, host venue for this year’s KPMG Women’s Irish Open. She has enjoyed three top-10s on tour this season, including a strong showing at the Evian Resort and tied fifth at last month’s German Masters.
Speaking on the announcement, Managing Director of AIB Capital Markets, Cathy Bryce said: “We are delighted to partner with Lauren and Tom and welcome them to the AIB team. It has been an exciting year for both golfers, and we are excited to support Tom as he competes in the US Open and Lauren as she continues to shine on the international stage. This partnership underscores AIB’s commitment to fostering talent and supporting sporting excellence, be it in our own communities or representing Ireland internationally.
McKibbin said: “I am honoured to be working alongside AIB, and I am grateful for the support they have already shown me so early on in my career. Their backing means a lot to me as I prepare for a huge milestone in my career with the US Open and as I continue to pursue my goals in golf and beyond.
“AIB’s dedication to helping people achieve their best resonates with my own ambitions, and I look forward to working together.”
Walsh shared similar sentiments: “I am very excited to come on board as a brand partner with AIB. It is a tremendous honour and a very exciting team to join. Their support is invaluable as I embark on this exciting chapter of my career, particularly with so many exciting opportunities to play on the horizon. I am grateful for their belief in me and look forward to a successful partnership.”
-ENDS