The early morning was crisp, invigorating with a promise of a fine and sunny day with a light breeze.  If you are thinking that this was excellent golfing weather, you are right because this was the day of the annual St Johns Rotary Annual Golf Tournament. Under the team led by member David Hartstone, the Tournament not only squeaked in ahead of the restrictions by the thinnest of margins but made more than previous tournaments. Not only was it a financial success, but players, sponsors, volunteers and others commented on how great a day it was and their satisfaction with being a part of such a great event.
 
The picture shows golfers greeting each other with the approved elbow bump (good Covid-19 practices being observed) and DG Gary demonstrating the perfect golf swing.
 
After all, how can you go wrong when you start the Tournament with a delicious lunch and a briefing as to the rules of the day (including health and welfare) and the many activities of interest before heading off to your tee for the start.  Then, the fresh air, the manicured fairways, the great shots to be celebrated and for some, balls to be found.  Drinks carts made frequent appearances, special micro-competitions such as closest to the hole on the putting green, and just all-around great camaraderie made this a wonderful day out. At the conclusion of play there was a prizegiving with raffles and an auction with hot snacks served to the hungry players.
 
The Tournament of course was for a great cause.  Financially, $4,000 more was raised than last year.  The total raised enabled the primary cause, KidsCan to receive a donation of $22,316 (approximately 2/3rds of nett total) and as it turns out this will be especially needed in these difficult times for many children.  The balance of the funds will go a long way in funding the club’s vast array of Youth and Community projects and events.
 
Congratulations and thanks to organiser David Hartstone and a huge thanks to Freightways, all other sponsors, players, volunteers, and the Remuera Golf Club.
 

KidsCan was feeding 34,000 children daily and now reports that with schools closed thousands of kids are going hungry.  Just ahead of the Lockdown they were able to send to send food home for the kids via the schools but while hoping to be designated an essential service they have had to suspend operations. If they are unable to feed the children in need during the Lockdown the demand for their services immediately after this is lifted will be enormous