Golf legend Colin Montgomerie shared stories from his illustrious career during a showpiece event that raised more than £53,000 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The charity day at Gog Magog Golf Club, in Cambridge, started with more than 200 players taking to the Old and Wandlebury courses.
Former Ryder Cup legend Montgomerie joined them and played a shot with every team, as well as posing for pictures. The golfers also enjoyed breakfast and lunch together, with gin, prosecco, beer and snacks on the course.
The action then moved to the historic King’s College, in Cambridge, for a reception on the green, followed by a memorable evening in the prestigious Grand Hall.
Hosted by BBC presenter Tom Williams, guests had the chance to enjoy fascinating insights into Montgomerie’s career, as well as hearing from EACH’s Chair of Trustees, Brad McLean, and Chief Executive, Kevin Clements.
“Friday’s event was the best part of two years in the making and a resounding success,” said Caroline Allen, EACH’s Head of Philanthropy and Partnerships. “All the hard work and hours of planning paid off, and everything went seamlessly. There were so many highlights, and it was great spending the day with Colin. We managed to whisk him around both courses, and he played a shot for every team.”
The evening proved just as special, with guests enjoying fizz and canapés by the River Cam, while listening to EACH Music Therapist Ray Travasso and daughter Lilianna. The pair provided a perfect musical backdrop by playing the guitar and harp respectively. A four-course meal in The Hall followed, with entertainment from host Tom and a fascinating conversation with Colin himself.
“The whole day was truly unforgettable, and the most important thing was raising an outstanding £53,293 for EACH,” added Caroline. “It couldn’t have gone any better, even down to the sunny, perfect weather. We also had a quiz, silent auction and raffle, and were so grateful to Gog Magog Golf Club and their captains for hosting this golf day and their support in aid of EACH. It was very much a joint-venture, and the Captain, Mark Spears, and Lady Captain, Jules Routledge, were on hand to present the prizes, along with Colin.”
Brad, as well as being EACH’s Chair of Trustees, is manager at Gog Magog and a bereaved dad whose family received care and support from EACH.
“These days require a huge team effort, and it was a real honour to talk to the 200+ strong audience about EACH’s work and the impact we have on families across East Anglia,” he said. “To raise as much as we did was astounding, and I can’t express my thanks and gratitude enough to everyone that attended and supported our golf day. The day and evening were huge successes, and everyone I’ve spoken to had a brilliant time. All involved should be immensely proud of what we achieved and accomplished.”
Caroline and Brad also extended their sincere thanks to headline sponsors MCB Financial Services Ltd and Precision Golf, and the members and captains of Gog Magog Golf Club.
Pictures: Glenn Hands and Dik Ng
