The Provincial Grand Lodge of Valencia recently held a Grand Golf Tournament to raise money to send under privileged children to the Summer School in Guadalest. This was held at the Serena Golf centre and was attended by fifty-six golf lovers who were keen to play and, at the same time, help needy children to be able to attend a summer school. The Provincial Grand Master, Right Worshipful Brother Michael Shilan and his deputy, Very WBro Rodney Bignell, were both in attendance to support this worthy day’s efforts. Provincial Charity Steward, WBro Trevor Bagnall was also there and took part in the match.
As well as the golf tournament, of which more later, there were several competitions to raise more money. One was to guess how many balls would be lost over the day and one lucky chap, Mick Billings, got the number exactly right by forecasting two hundred and twelve. There was also an auction which raised a further seven hundred and forty-five euros. The prizes, consisting of having green fees paid, were donated by golf courses in Alicante, Elche, Bonalba, La Serena, Las Colinas and Vistabella. Many thanks to all of them for their wonderful support.
A number of prizes were also donated by local businesses in the form of bottles of spirits etc. There were also two autographed items in the auction: a polo shirt signed by Darren Clarke – Ryder Cup Captain
and a golf glove signed by Padraig Harrington – Ryder Cup winner
Sponsorship was also offered by the following companies:
Boats & Barcos, Torrevieja
JR’s Country Club, Ciudad Quesada
Easy Insurance SL, Torrevieja
Caroline’s Embroidery Workshop
Alicante Lettings, Donna Pepa
As a result of all the activities on the day a magnificent total of more than two thousand eight hundred euros were raised.
The day was largely organised by WBro John Harvey and Bro Mike Wyatt who did most of the donkey work. A lot of help and support was also given by Mr John O’Brian, who represented the Spanish Golf Federation, and also managed to obtain some of the free green fees.
All attendees also had a fantastic lunch and the overall view was that it had been a magnificent event for all concerned.
On a final note, preparations are already in progress for a tournament next year, probably at Bonalba Golf, with a date yet to be confirmed.
Winners of the various events
Spanish Federated
John O’Brien and Denis McCormack -first place
Bill Martin and Eric Owens – 2nd place
Brent Hollings and John Dodds – 3rd place
Non-Federated
Rebecca McGeehan and Yvette McGeehan – first place
Paul Burletson and Steve Cardwell – 2nd place – Old Tower No. 49
Martin Gedney & Mike Billins – 3rd place
Nearest the pins
3rd: Mick the Grip
9th: Mike Billins
15th: Andy Trefry
17th: Andy Trefry