Rounds 4 Research June auction raises more than $112,500 for turfgrass studies
National program has raised more than $400,000 since 2012
Lawrence, Kan. (July 7, 2015) – The 2015 Rounds 4 Research fundraising program to support turfgrass studies, managed by the Environmental Institute For Golf (EIFG), sold more than 670 rounds and yielded more than $112,500 in its June 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 $22,000 raised, was the leader among more than 50 fundraising partners that donated rounds to support turfgrass research at the local level. The top bid was $3,435 for a two-night stay and eight rounds of golf offered by Bandon Dunes Resort in Bandon, Ore.; while the high bid for a tee time for four golfers was $1,720 for the chance to play at Somerset Hills Country Club in Bernardsville, N.J., a famed A.W. Tillinghast course and host of the 1990 Curtis Cup Match.
“Playing at Bandon Dunes was on my bucket list, but the most gratifying result of the auction for me is knowing that the funds will go toward a better golf experience for all of us,” said Dr. Robert Stout, who submitted the winning bid for Bandon Dunes.
“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 $400,000 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.
SOURCE: GCSAA