National campaign program for 2014 tops $145,000
Lawrence, Kan. (Aug. 19, 2014) – The second phase of the 2014 Rounds 4 Research fundraising program for turfgrass studies, run by the Environmental Institute for Golf (EIFG), sold more than 200 rounds of golf and yielded $30,891 in the seven-day online auction that closed Aug. 10. The total for the June and August auctions was $145,339. The EIFG is the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).
The Metropolitan Golf Course Superintendents Association was the leader with more than $4,000 raised among the 40 fundraising partners that donated rounds for turfgrass research at the local level. The top bid for a tee time for four golfers was $1,480 for the chance to play at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Ky., home to the recent PGA Championship won by Rory McIlroy. A stay-and-play package at French Lick (Ind.) Resort sold for $1,650.
“We are pleased with the success of our Rounds 4 Research program and the good that we know it can do for turfgrass research,” said Rhett Evans, GCSAA chief executive officer. “This is a terrific program that gives golfers everywhere a chance to play their favorite courses and benefit the long-term health of the game.”
The national campaign is supported by a $50,000 donation from The Toro Co. The program has raised more than $320,000 since being launched in 2012. Eighty percent of the money raised is returned to the local chapters for turf studies.
About GCSAA and the EIFG
GCSAA is a leading golf organization and has as its focus golf course management. Since 1926, GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the United States and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to nearly 18,000 members in more than 72 countries. GCSAA’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Find GCSAA on Facebook, follow GCSAA on Twitter and visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org. The Environmental Institute for Golf is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA, and has as its mission to foster sustainability through research, awareness, education, programs and scholarships for the benefit of golf course management professionals, golf facilities and the game. Visit www.eifg.org.
Contact:
Craig Smith, Director, Communications and Media Relations
Phone: 800-472-7878, ext. 4431 or 785-691-9197 (cell)
csmith@gcsaa.org
