Despite it being atrociously damp weather to play golf in, a Totara Hospice charity event was a major success raising a record $74,819.
With it being a very wet day on November 15, there were only a handful of entrants who decided to continue swinging in the rain, says Howick’s Paul McCoy, a member of the organising group.
“Heavy rain faced the 144 competitors and although the Pakuranga Golf Club was still open for play it quickly became apparent the conditions were extremely unpleasant.
“Many competitors returned to the clubhouse after three or four holes. A few hardy souls managed nine holes before the tournament was suspended.”
It was the 32rd Totara Hospice Charity Golf Day and McCoy and his fellow organisers were very pleased to have collected “a record amount for any one year”.
“As planned, the auction was successful in raising approximately $26,000 to the donation total.”
Being offered for bids in the auctions were numerous top-notch sporting memorabilia items and travel-oriented packages, including 2024 autographed jerseys of the All Blacks, Kiwis, Black Ferns, and a signed Lydia Ko golf pitching wedge.
With the wet weather proving to be a dampener for golf, players retreated to the clubrooms, where they also heard a moving address from Dr James Jap, the clinical director at Totara Hospice.
“As no full rounds were recorded, all prizes – more than 55 – were presented by lot to the lucky assembled golfers,” says McCoy.
“Then we presented the donation gift card to Totara Hospice of $74,819.
“The tournament had earlier commenced with the firing of a 1930s restored Swiss Army cannon, of the type used in the Second World War.
“This is the fourth year there has been a unique starting signal used, three employing a cannon.”
