Golf: Lee lands major sponsor

Danny Lee. Photo by Gregor Richardson
Danny Lee. Photo by Gregor Richardson
New Zealand golfer Danny Lee continues to reap the dividends of turning professional before even teeing off, signing a deal with equipment suppliers Callaway.

Terms of the agreement announced today were kept confidential but US amateur champion Lee's bank account is sure to boosted considerably, as it was when he signed with sports managment company IMG last week.

Callaway Golf vice president of sports marketing Nick Raffaele said the deal was an excellent one for his company.

"When a rising star such as Danny is lighting up the amateur ranks and winning professional events while playing with your clubs and golf ball, it's hard not to get excited," he said in a statement.

"We're proud to be with Danny as he embarks on his professional career. This young man's talent and work ethic are as impressive as his character." The 18-year-old said he was pleased to cement an equipment deal.

"I've been playing with Callaway's equipment and golf balls during this important time in my career because I feel they put me in the best position to win," he said.

Lee will play his first tournament as a professional at the $US6.3 million ($NZ11.3 million) Zurich Classic of New Orleans starting tomorrow morning (NZ time).