The ANNIKA Foundation and Old Barnwell Announce 2025 ANNIKA Development Program Ambassadors

The 2025 ANNIKA Development Program Class (from left to right Carolina Chacarra, Hannah Darling, Katie Lu, Caitlyn Macnab and Louise Rydqvist.

Aiken, S.C. (April 14, 2025) — The ANNIKA Foundation, in partnership with Old Barnwell, is proud to announce the five outstanding young women selected as 2025 Ambassadors for the ANNIKA Development Program. This year’s class includes:

• Carolina Chacarra, Wake Forest University

• Hannah Darling, University of South Carolina

• Louise Rydqvist, University of South Carolina

• Katie Lu, Michigan State University

• Caitlyn Macnab, University of Mississippi

Now entering its third year, the ANNIKA Development Program is designed to support recent graduates of U.S. college golf programs as they transition into professional golf. Each year, four or five eligible players are selected through a competitive process that includes a thorough application review and finalist interviews conducted by a selection committee.

With the addition of this new class, the ANNIKA Development Program now proudly supports 14 Ambassadors representing players from various college conferences and 10 different countries—a reflection of the ANNIKA Foundation’s growing global impact and the international reach of its tournaments and programs.

Ambassadors receive access to Old Barnwell’s premier golf facilities and the resources of the ANNIKA Development Program for three years. Additional benefits include complimentary housing during the first year, a $10,000 annual stipend to assist with tournament fees and travel, professional networking opportunities through Old Barnwell’s members and staff, and mentorship directly from Annika.

“This program is all about creating opportunities,” said Annika, 11-time major champion and founder of the ANNIKA Foundation. “We’re proud to support these talented young women as they pursue their dreams in professional golf. Their potential is limitless, and we’re honored to be part of their journey.”

The players expressed both gratitude and excitement for the opportunity:

“I am truly honored to be part of the ANNIKA Development Program at Old Barnwell. Growing up, I admired Annika not only for her success on the golf course but also for her vision to give back to the game As a junior golfer and now as a college athlete, I've had the opportunity to compete in her events and witness the impact she continues to have on women's golf. I am very grateful for the chance to represent both the ANNIKA Foundation and Old Barnwell and being part of a program focused on growing the game and giving back means a lot to me.” – Carolina Chacarra, Wake Forest University

“This truly means everything to me! To be an ANNIKA Development Program Ambassador is something I’ve dreamt of ever since they announced this opportunity a few years ago. The ANNIKA Foundation has been a huge part of my golf journey, and I have plenty of lifetime memories from their events. As a Swede, Annika has always been my role model, which makes this even more special. Lastly, Old Barnwell is such an amazing golf club, and I look forward to being a part of their community for the next couple years!” – Louise Rydqvist, University of South Carolina

“I’m truly excited to be selected as an ambassador for the ANNIKA Development Program at Old Barnwell. This program offers incredible opportunities for both personal and professional growth, and I know it will be invaluable as I take the next step toward professional golf. I’m especially looking forward to being part of a community at Old Barnwell that shares a strong passion for the game. Most of all, I’m grateful for the chance to give back to a sport that has given me so much and to continue learning and growing through this program.” – Katie Lu, Michigan State University 

The ANNIKA Development Program reflects a shared commitment by the ANNIKA Foundation and Old Barnwell to invest in the future of women’s golf by fostering excellence, access, and opportunity.

For more information about Old Barnwell, visit oldbarnwell.com.