Arkansas Sports 360 - ArkansasSports360.com

5/27/2011 at 5:10pm

Image by Mark Carter

George W. Bush at The First Tee in Little Rock

(Photos: Click to see a photo slideshow of Bush's visit.)

Calling golf a game that demands honesty with yourself and personal responsibility, former President George W. Bush helped The First Tee of Central Arkansas celebrate its 10th anniversary and dedicate a garden in honor of program benefactors Harriet and Warren Stephens Friday afternoon in Little Rock.

Bush, like his father before him, is the honorary national chairman of The First Tee, a youth golf program open to all kids but focusing on those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, children with disabilities and kids who have parents deployed in the military.

His father, former President George H.W. Bush, helped dedicate the grand opening of the Little Rock First Tee facility in 2001.

"I wish there had been a full-time program like this when I was growing up," Bush told the 200 or so invited guests at the First Tee facility, located in south Little Rock on much of what used to be the old Rock Creek golf course.

Bush said golf affects kids in many positive ways, requiring a lot of practice and the conviction to never give up.

"I'm honored to be associated with an organization that has made such a positive impact on people's lives," Bush said.

More

Click here to read more on Bush's visit to Little Rock at ArkansasBusiness.com.

Previously

Jim Harris: The First Tee Marks 10 Years, Seeks Self-Sufficiency

Tagged: The First Tee of Central Arkansas, Harriet Stephens, George W. Bush, golf, Warren Stephens