(The R&A Foundation has partnered with Magic Bus India Foundation to provide access to golf for school children in Delhi. Credit Image R/A)
In a landmark initiative to democratize the "sport of kings," The R&A Foundation has announced a transformative partnership with the Magic Bus India Foundation. The collaboration is carving out new pathways for adolescent girls in Delhi, providing access to golf—a sport traditionally perceived as elite and inaccessible—while equipping them with essential life skills.
Launched in 2024, the program integrates structured life skills education with introductory golf coaching at the Salwan Girls’ Senior Secondary School. What began with 491 students has evolved into a specialized track where 50 girls, demonstrating high aptitude and passion, receive advanced coaching.
The initiative is designed to move participants from "childhood to livelihood." While the golf course provides the arena, the core curriculum focuses on:
(Manju watches on as her daughter Somi plays golf, a sport she says has transformed her daughter. Credit R/A)
Caroline Wallard, Director of Philanthropy at The R&A, emphasized that the investment is about more than just the game. "Magic Bus is delivering an approach that not only opens the door to the sport for girls but also strengthens their confidence and enhances their prospects," Wallard stated.
The program's technical execution is supported by The Golf Revolution, which utilizes simulators, theory, and monthly distance metrics to accelerate player development. Sachit Soni, Co-Founder of The Golf Revolution, noted the remarkable progress of the students: "In only eight months, they have developed swings that many golfers take years to build."
The impact of the partnership is best measured through the personal growth of its participants:
| Participant | Age | Transformation |
| Jainab | 12 | From a shy student to a tournament runner-up, aspiring to turn professional. |
| Ritika | 13 | Overcame a fear of judgment to become a confident team leader. |
| Somi | 15 | Mastered discipline and time management, winning over skeptical parents. |
"Earlier, I used to be scared to speak," said 13-year-old Ritika. "But Magic Bus taught us to be leaders... That’s how my confidence came."
The success of the pilot program has set the stage for rapid scaling. This year, the initiative is expected to reach 1,200 additional students across two more schools: Kasturba Balika Vidyalaya and Salwan Boys' School.
Jayant Rastogi, Global CEO of Magic Bus India Foundation, linked the program to India’s broader national goals. "When girls are equipped with skills, opportunity, and aspiration, they become drivers of a stronger, more inclusive Viksit Bharat (Developed India)," Rastogi said.
By combining the global reach of The R&A with the grassroots expertise of Magic Bus, the program is ensuring that the next generation of Indian youth has the "confidence and capability to thrive," proving that the lessons learned in the bunker are invaluable for the journey of life.
