HOUSTON—Lorena Ochoa is the first Mexican golfer, man or woman, to be ranked number one in the world. Success has brought her fortune and fame, but this young woman has her sights set higher than sports.
This LPGA champion is using her popularity to improve the lives of hundreds of children back at home.
Excited fans lined up at the Houstonian country club for autographs from the 28-year-old rising sports star.
Ochoa was born in Guadalajara, and started studying golf at five years old, and by age seven, had won her first national event.
By her own standards, this has not been one of Ochoa’s most successful seasons on the golf course, but away from golf, she said life is better than ever.
Ochoa is getting married next month, and is also pursuing another dream. She has started a foundation to help young people.
The Ochoa Foundation started a primary school in Guadalajara and just added a high school.
“We have more than three hundred kids and it is for sure the greatest joy,” she said. “That’s why I play and why I wake up every morning. So I can help those kids, so they can get what they deserve.”
Ochoa has not forgotten her own humble beginnings.
“I believe that vocation is the most important thing to help a girl or boy to be successful in the future, and be a better Mexico. I am happy to help and will continue for many more years,” she said.
In Soccer-mad Mexico, Ochoa has started a golf academy. There are currently four academies, with plans to add two more.
Not only does Ochoa want more golfers in Mexico, she also wants more success stories.
Ochoa is a true champion on, and off, the field.
