Ozzie Smith passes PGA Championship Trophy off to Mets' David Wright

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PORT ST. LUICE, FL, (KMOX) – In a pre-game ceremony before the New York Mets vs. St. Louis Cardinals spring training game today, the PGA of America named David Wright – former Mets third baseman, seven-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove Award recipient – as “Honorary Ambassador” of the 2019 PGA Championship to be played at Bethpage Black from May 13-19.

The Honorary Ambassador title was created to salute an individual from the PGA Championship host city who embodies the core values of the PGA of America, is passionate about the game of golf and is strongly connected to the community. Last year’s 100th PGA Championship in St. Louis honored Ozzie Smith, former St. Louis Cardinals shortstop and member of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, as the inaugural recipient.

Smith was on hand for the festivities to officially pass the torch from Bellerive Country Club in St. Louis, host of the 100th PGA Championship, to Bethpage Black in New York, host of the 2019 PGA Championship this May. Wright accepted the honor during an on-field presentation, and the Mets celebrated the occasion with the Wanamaker Trophy on display and golf-themed fan activations throughout the game.

First arriving in NYC in 2004, Wright quickly cemented himself as one of the most beloved players in Mets history during his stellar 14-year career. On the field, Wright was a cornerstone of the Mets infield along with a steady bat at the plate. Off the field, it was the quality of Wright’s character that made him a fan favorite and a leader in the community. After battling spinal stenosis for two years, Wright made a comeback and concluded his playing career in 2018. Today, he continues to serve the Mets and the community in various charitable roles.

“David Wright epitomizes what being an Honorary Ambassador of the PGA Championship is all about,” said Scott Reid, 2019 PGA Championship Director. “New Yorkers are familiar with his strong connection to the community and his reputation for being one of the most charitable athletes in professional sports. David’s not too shabby on a golf course either. It’s his love of golf and his passion for New York, in addition to the quality of his character, that make him the perfect fit as our Honorary Ambassador.”

Wright will be honored during PGA Championship Week from May 13-19 at Bethpage Black, with specific details about his on-site activities to be released shortly.

“It's an honor to carry on the PGA Championship's Honorary Ambassador legacy established last year in St. Louis by my friend, Ozzie Smith," said Wright. "To advocate on behalf of the PGA of America, as they bring their major championships to New York, was an exciting opportunity I could not pass up. After so many summers at the ballpark, I am really looking forward to spending the second full week in May at Bethpage Black."

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