thoughts on the news of the day: generosity

hmmm…..

            Ryo Ishikawa, a 19 year-old Japanese professional golfer announced yesterday that he will be giving all of his 2011 prize winnings to the victims of the disaster that hit Japan on March 11.  It is estimated that he could win over $1 million dollars if he has a good season on the PGA Tour.  Last year he won $1.8 million on the Japan Tour alone.

            Aside from the obvious reason that it will help the people of Japan tremendously, Ishikawa has other motivations for making the offer.  He says that it will help him play better.  I would imagine that the idea of giving aid to those in desperate need in his home country would certainly bring impetus to play better.  But it would also bring intense pressure.  What if he didn’t do so well … would that cause even more pressure .. a luxury that top flight golfers really can’t afford?

            But you really have to give this young man credit.  How many 19 year old celebrities do you hear about who are willing to donate all of their earnings to people in need?  It’s a noble gesture and requires maturity and generosity far beyond his young years.

            Then, again, it’s pretty good marketing strategy.  Who wouldn’t root for someone who is giving everything to a good cause?  I mean, wouldn’t you want him to win knowing that the people in Japan would be helped? 

            On the PGA tour, it’s going to be an interesting year.

            hmmm…..