KPMG today renewed its sponsorship of golfer Phil Mickelson through '16. Mickelson has worn the company's logo on his headgear since '08. In addition, KPMG and Mickelson will expand their efforts to combat youth illiteracy through KPMG's Family for Literacy and "Blue for Books" initiatives. This program encourages golf fans to purchase Mickelson's authentic blue KPMG hat at PhilsBlueHat.com. KPMG donates 100% of the net proceeds to First Book, which provides three new books to children in need for each hat sold. The PGA Tour Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines, which begins tomorrow, will be the first tournament this year where the hat will be available on-site for purchase (KPMG).
RIDING IN STYLE: The PGA of America today announced that Ralph Lauren will be the official outfitter for the '14 U.S. Ryder Cup team. The company, a longtime sponsor of '14 U.S. Ryder Cup team captain Tom Watson, will design the official uniforms to be worn by Team USA during the event (PGA of America).
REGARDS FOR RORY: Nike Golf President Cindy Davis discussed having Rory McIlroy as an endorser of the company for the past year and said, "I can tell you we've had a lot of fun working with him. He looks terrific out there in our product." Davis added, "We've worked hard with him ... and I think he's going to have a great, great year." She called McIlroy "darling" for his ability to "push the envelope with colors, with technology." Davis: "He's willing to try things. He's adventurous with his product and with his look" ("Morning Drive," Golf Channel, 1/21).
