Program has raised more than $1.5 million since its launch in 2012
Lawrence, Kan. – Rounds 4 Research (R4R) is an innovative program aimed at generating resources to fund research and help ensure golf’s future. R4R is administered by The Environmental Institute for Golf, the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). Golf facilities can support the effort by donating rounds of golf for two or four or “stay and play” packages and other items that are auctioned online. The 2020 auction will be held July 20-26, and is available to preview at www.biddingforgood.com/rounds4research.
Rounds 4 Research provides a way for all aspects of the game to come together to ensure its future. The 2019 R4R auction raised more than $364,000, and the program has raised more than $1.5 million since its launch in 2012.
In 2019, the Virginia GCSA was among several chapters to receive funds for projects and programs incorporating advocacy efforts in the state to help protect the game.
“Rounds4Research funding helped us bring on our first lobbyist for our association in 2019,” said David Norman, executive director, Virginia GCSA. “With R4R proceeds pledged for advocacy, our members responded well, doubling our R4R revenue over the previous year. Our lobbyist is doing a great job protecting our members’ interests.
The GCSA of New Jersey and its GCSA of NJ Foundation, which provides research, education and advocacy for turfgrass, has also received research funding. R4R provided funds for the following projects: Insecticide – Resistant Annual Bluegrass weevil; Understanding and Preventing a Superintendent’s Nightmare, and Poa Management on Fairways using ABW, PGRs and Bentgrass Overseeding.
“Rounds 4 Research had been very beneficial to our chapter’s commitment to funding research for the Rutgers University Center for Turfgrass Science along with the recently launched New Jersey Turfgrass Economic Survey. We have also been able to immensely grow our Foundation’s scholarship program which benefits our members and their immediate family,” said Maureen Sharples, executive director, GCSA of New Jersey. “We also feel that the program is a creative way for our superintendent’s clubs and courses to learn more about our industry while having a unique opportunity to support our causes.”
To donate, visit https://www.eifg.org/research/rounds-4-research/donate-a-round/online-form.
Contact:
Angela Hartmann
Director, Marketing and Communications
Phone: 800-472-7878, ext. 3647 or 785-393-1361 (cell)
Mike Strauss
Manager, Media Relations
Phone: 800-472-7878, ext. 5164