...because he is calling for entries to his first charity golf day at Edenmore Golf & Country Club, Magheralin, on Friday 10 May 2013 which will raise invaluable funds for Friends of the Cancer Centre.
Back in 2007, Josh lost his father, Steve, at the age of 56 to cancer of the oesophagus. As a keen golfer, it was Steve who got Josh and his brother James into golf as a hobby when they were young.
At the time of Steve’s death, his family ran a number of events to raise funds for Friends of the Cancer Centre, the charity of the regional centre of excellence in cancer care, based at theBelfast City Hospital. Now 18 years of age, Josh, who plays cricket for Ireland’s Under 19s, decided, of his own bat, to run this event in order to give something back to those who’d helped and supported his dad and their family.
Edenmore has always been where Josh has played golf, so it seemed the obvious place to go to when looking for a venue. It is also easy to find as it is well sign posted once you get to Magheralin.
The whole event has turned into quite a family affair. Josh’s mum, Kate, and sister, Sarah, have been helping him prepare and organise the day in between him studying Sport at the Lisburn campus of the South Eastern Regional College. Brother James has also been on hand to lend support and will be gathering a team to represent the family in the event, as Josh will be managing the on-the-day running of the event.
Josh is already well on his way to having a full starting sheet of 128 golfers lined up for this four-ball Stableford competition, which is open to individuals or teams of four players (men, women or mixed.) To book a tee spot and to obtain further information, please contact Josh via 079 1716 3400 or ardwickjh@aol.co.uk.
Looking forward to the day, Josh Hall, event organiser, says, “I hope teams from far and wide will join us on the day for a spot of competition and to help raise funds for this worthy charity. At only £50 per person, which includes a two course meal plus tea and coffee, I hope interested golfers will see it as a good value day out that will help raise money to support cancer patients and their families across Northern Ireland.
“Friends of the Cancer Centre makes a real and meaningful difference to the lives of thousands of cancer patients and their families across Northern Ireland by providing the latest medical equipment to help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and by funding specialist medical posts and research. It also works to improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their families through diverse projects which range from complementary therapies and relaxation classes to refurbishing the on-site ‘patient hotel’ for those who regularly have to travel long distances for their treatment.”
Helping to launch the new event, Claire McAuley, Events & Community Fundraising Manager for the charity says; “I would like to thank Josh and his family for all of their support in helping to raise funds for Friends of the Cancer Centre through this fun sporting event. No matter what your handicap is, I’d encourage you to come along for a social round of golf paired with a great day’s craic, all in the name of charity.
“Friends of the Cancer Centre’s funding is always directed towards projects and services which are outside and in addition to the provision already made by the Health Service, responding to needs highlighted by the Cancer Centre’s expert medical staff.”
The Manager of Edenmore Golf & Country Club, Deaglan O’Hagan said: “We are delighted to be working with Josh and his team to help raise funds for the Friends of the Cancer Centre. We have put together an excellent package, which will guarantee a memorable day for everyone who takes part. I would urge everyone to take action, pick up the phone and call Josh to reserve a tee time.”
Josh adds; “I am particularly grateful to Hughes Insurance who has generously come on board as the event’s principal sponsor. I am also indebted to Edenmore Golf and Country Club’s invaluable support in providing the full use of its course and facilities for the day.
“It would be brilliant if the event was such a success that it turned into an annual event but let’s take it one year at a time.”
