National program has raised more than $565,000 since 2012.
Lawrence, Kan. (April 26, 2016) — The 2016 Rounds 4 Research fundraising program to support turfgrass studies, managed by the Environmental Institute for Golf (EIFG), sold more than 800 rounds and yielded more than $164,000 in its April online auction. The EIFG is the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).
The Carolinas Golf Course Superintendents Association, with more than $44,000 raised, was the leader among more than 50 fundraising partners that donated rounds to support turfgrass research at the local level. The Georgia GCSA was next with $13,000 raised for its association.
The top bid was $4,600 for four rounds of golf offered by Sage Valley Golf Club in Graniteville, S.C. Other high bids went for $2,325 for four players at East Lake Golf Club outside of Atlanta, and more than $1,800 apiece for two stay-and-play packages for four players at the French Lick Golf Resort in French Lick, Ind.
“This was a great opportunity that I couldn’t pass up,” said Sean Moore, who owns 12 Five Guys restaurants in South Carolina. “I have heard nothing but great things about Sage Valley, and now I have an opportunity to play. I have three friends already set to round out the group; now we just need to find a time that works.”
“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 $565,000 since launching in 2012.
About GCSAA and the EIFG
The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to nearly 18,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter.
The Environmental Institute for Golf is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to foster sustainability through research, awareness, education, programs and scholarships for the benefit of golf course management professionals, golf facilities and the game. Visit EIFG at www.eifg.org. or find us on Facebook or Twitter.
Contact:
Craig Smith, Director, Communications and Media Relations
Phone: 800-472-7878, ext. 4431 or 785-691-9197 (cell)
csmith@gcsaa.org
