This text is replaced by the Flash movie.

Christchurch Golf Marrowthon® '07

256Golf-Logo-1 It may have been the first LBF Golf Marrowthon® on the South Island, but with delighted players already signing up for next year, it certainly won't be the last.

Despite their tired legs and achy arms, the 36 competitors were still smiling broadly after completing an incredible 100 holes each at Christchurch's Clearwater Golf Club. And the smiles were broader still when they learned they'd raised a fantastic $100,000 for the Leukaemia & Blood Foundation.

Among the sports and entertainment greats teeing off on Tuesday 9 October, 2007, was legendary golfer Sir Bob Charles. The 1963 British Open champion took time out from his busy schedule to support golfers on the 1st tee.

Also playing were former All Blacks Robbie Deans (who received a $10,000 pledge from an anonymous supporter) and Steve Surridge, and cricketers Nathan Astle and Chris Harris. They tested their endurance alongside a number of former patients, as well as friends and families whose lives have been touched by these diseases.

257CGM-07---Group

All the money raised will fund the LBF’s Patient Support Services for people on the South Island living with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and related blood conditions. The LBF currently has one Support Services Co-ordinator working in Christchurch, but we are keen to increase this service.

The unique Golf Marrowthon fundraiser sees golfers gaining pledges from sponsors to complete 100 holes of golf in a day.  While 100 holes is a big challenge, experience has shown that it is achievable.  In order to make the Golf Marrowthon possible, special rules apply.

Pru Etcheverry, Executive Director of the Leukaemia & Blood Foundation, said: “The atmosphere was incredible - there was such a tangible sense of goodwill and good humour. Everyone completed their 100 holes and had a lot of fun along the way. We are extremely grateful to all the players, volunteers, and sponsors, and to our event organisers, Geoff Alexander and Arthur Pitcher. More than 130 players have made this event possible over the past three years, and the energy and enthusiasm shown through their amazing golfing and fundraising efforts is invaluable, and ultimately makes our work possible.”

Three previous Marrowthons® held in Auckland have proved a great success for the charity, raising more than $300,000. Another two are now planned - Tirau (South Waikato) on Sunday 16 March, 2008, and Christchurch on Tuesday 14 October, 2008.