Sanctuary Golf, an Indoor Golf School for Beginners with Over 37,000 Cumulative Members, Announces Its First Official Ambassadors

July 4, 2026

Sanctuary Golf (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Junichi Hanyu), an indoor golf school dedicated exclusively to beginners with over 37,000 cumulative members, has announced the results of its first-ever 'Sanctuary Golf Ambassador Audition.' The company has selected three individuals—1 Grand Prix winner and 2 Runner-ups—as its inaugural official ambassadors.

Sanctuary Golf's First-Generation Ambassadors

~Grand Prix~

Ms. Marie Tanaka

http://www.instagram.com/marinbochan_golf

[Reason for Application]

As a complete beginner, I joined Sanctuary Golf and discovered the joy and appeal of golf. From this experience, I wanted to share that joy with others who might feel golf is intimidating. I also hope to inspire more people to believe that even as adults, they can take on new challenges and become passionate about them.

[Winning Comment]

Thank you so much for selecting me as Grand Prix. I'm truly thrilled and filled with gratitude and surprise. At the same time, I feel excited and motivated to practice more, improve my skills, and truly enjoy golf.

Moving forward, I aim to enhance my abilities while having fun, actively participate in competitions and events, and spread the charm and enjoyment of golf to as many people as possible.

Sanctuary Golf's First-Generation Ambassadors

~Runner-up~

Ms. Sena Misuzu

http://www.instagram.com/senamarugolf

[Reason for Application]

I had two main reasons for applying.

First, I wanted to reach more people with the message that anyone can start golf and to spread the sport's appeal. I've been creating content on YouTube and organizing events, but I felt limited as an individual. When I learned about this audition, I thought, 'This is my chance,' and decided to apply.

Second, I am a graduate of Sanctuary Golf. Ever since I started sharing golf content, one of my goals has been to work with Sanctuary Golf and return as a better golfer to surprise the instructors who supported me.

[Winning Comment]

I am truly grateful to be selected as a Runner-up. This has been a long-held dream, so I'm incredibly happy. I also sincerely thank all the staff who supported us during the photo shoots.

I want to transform common perceptions like 'golf seems difficult,' 'I don't know the etiquette,' or 'it's expensive' into positive images like 'golf looks fun!' or 'maybe I can do it too!' I aim to inspire as many people as possible to take their first step into golf.

I also understand that some current members may feel hesitant about joining competitions or on-course lessons alone. I want to become a relatable and approachable presence who can help ease those concerns and, when possible, participate alongside them.

Sanctuary Golf's First-Generation Ambassadors

~Runner-up~

Ms. Shiho Natsunagi

http://www.instagram.com/shiho.natsunagi

[Reason for Application]

I started golf through self-study, so I wanted to properly learn the fundamentals through structured lessons. As my desire to improve and enjoy my favorite sport grew stronger, I came across Sanctuary Golf's audition.

Seeing their beginner-friendly lesson approach, I felt this was exactly what I needed at this stage, so I decided to apply.

The three selected ambassadors are not mere advertising models.

They will serve as relatable figures for those who want to start golf or improve their skills—people who can think, 'Maybe I can do it too.' Through advertisements, social media, events, and promotional activities, they will communicate the fun and appeal of golf across Japan.

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Since its founding, Sanctuary Golf has upheld the mission of 'creating an environment where beginners can confidently take their first step into golf,' guiding countless newcomers to their golf debut.

The appointment of these ambassadors marks a new project aimed at expanding this mission and cultivating a new generation of golfers nationwide.

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One statement during the interviews deeply moved the selection committee: 'I almost came to hate golf.'

In the final interview, the panel prioritized not only social media presence and communication skills but also the applicants' heartfelt motivations—'Why do you want to promote golf?'

One response particularly resonated with all judges:

'I attended several golf schools before, but they used so much technical jargon that I couldn't understand anything, and I never found golf enjoyable. Sanctuary Golf taught me in simple terms anyone could understand, and for the first time, I thought, 'Golf is actually fun!'

Another applicant said:

'Even if I'm not selected as an ambassador, I want to keep attending Sanctuary Golf.'

These words powerfully reflect the 'beginner-first' values Sanctuary Golf has upheld since its inception.

There are messages only beginners—not experienced players—can convey.

That's why these ambassadors were chosen not as 'advertising faces' but as 'people who will encourage future beginners to take their first step.'

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A challenger who thought 'breaking 100 is impossible' achieved their dream

Among the applicants, one individual had participated in multiple golf lessons and even TV program challenges but had never broken 100. After receiving lessons at Sanctuary Golf, they achieved their first sub-100 round.

'Golf is too hard.' 'I'm not suited for it.'

People who once thought this are now stepping onto the course with confidence.

This success experience becomes a source of confidence for future challenges and empowers them to share golf's joy with others.

Upcoming plans include advertising shoots with Deputy President Jun Kanari.

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Lowering the barrier for women taking their 'first step' into golf

Golf often carries perceptions such as 'expensive,' 'hard to start alone,' 'intimidating due to experienced players,' and 'rules and etiquette seem complicated,' preventing many interested individuals from taking the first step.

For women especially, psychological barriers exist even before technical skills become relevant:

'No friends around me are starting golf.' 'I don't know where to go.' 'I'm unsure if I can do it.' 'I'm worried about bothering others as a beginner.'

Sanctuary Golf has, since its founding, made it its mission to lower this 'first step' barrier by creating a dedicated beginner-friendly school environment.

The selected ambassadors were all beginners once.

That's why they truly understand the mindset of those about to start golf.

'Maybe I can do it too.'

They will be that spark.