Generous GolfBIC backs Golf Foundation

Grass roots golf is set for a boost after a charity dinner raised nearly £6,500 for the Golf Foundation.

Delegates generated the funds at the recent Golf Business and Industry Convention (GolfBIC) at the Forest of Arden Marriott Hotel.

The money raised will be spent on Golf Foundation projects in schools, communities and golf clubs, helping a diverse cross-section of youngsters prepare for regular play at golf clubs and driving ranges.

The fundraising dinner was a highlight amid two days of industry seminars, workshops and a tailored trade exhibition - all designed to aid golf course and range owners and operators to enhance their businesses in 2014 and beyond.

Chairman of the Organisation of Golf Range Owners (OGRO) Colin Jenkins led a lively auction of golf experiences and donated items and guests enjoyed a prize raffle, games and the priceless opportunity to have their photograph taken standing with the Ryder Cup which was brought along by guest speaker, PGA chief executive Sandy Jones (pictured above right with Drayton Leisure Golf Centre's Nick Turner).

The donation will be invested in the Golf Foundation’s ‘HSBC Golf Roots’ programme, which offers first golf experiences in primary and secondary schools and community projects and provides a structured pathway to regular play at club level where, working with PGA Professionals, children can learn the game using the Foundation’s new-look, PGA-endorsed Junior Golf Passport.

Jenkins said: “It’s always a pleasure to raise funds for the Golf Foundation and this year the delegates and donors excelled themselves. As I am fond of reminding my colleagues in the industry it is only really a loan to give money to the Golf Foundation, as they grow the number of players, which helps us all.

“We hold the auction between courses as it allows for a little gentle blackmail – no pudding until we have a higher bid etc! We really appreciate the support from individuals and companies who donate prizes – their generosity makes all this possible and we are very lucky and appreciative that they continue to support the charitable side of the GolfBIC dinner in this way – long may it continue.”

Mike Round, chief executive of the Golf Foundation, added: “We would like to thank the organisers of GolfBIC and everyone present for their great generosity in making this fantastic donation. There was a high level of understanding at the event towards the objectives of HSBC Golf Roots. Through this programme increasing numbers of youngsters from a wide range of backgrounds and circumstances are being given genuine opportunities to enjoy regular golf participation.

"I’m delighted to say that all at GolfBIC seemed to embrace the key message that these youngsters and their families are the golf customers of today and tomorrow and it is vital that we as an industry welcome in these boys and girls to protect the future of the game.”