South Wales Seniors Classic’s raised £4k for Wales’ helicopter charity

Despite the unusual year we have all faced, the South Wales Seniors Classic has raised £4,000 for the Wales Air Ambulance during a classic golf challenge.

The group has been raising money for the lifesaving charity since 2004 and to-date has raised £96,420.

Following government restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic, organisers of the South Wales Seniors Classic decided to cancel all 2020 competitions.

However, as the restrictions started to lift it was decided that the Claret Jug competition, which would normally start in July, could possibly be re-organised to take place in August.

A delighted Howel Craven, from South Wales Seniors Classic, said: “Following consultation with our committee members we felt that it was possible to arrange the Claret Jug competition and with the cooperation of four of our South Wales Golf Clubs we decide to proceed with our competition. This proved an immediate success as within four weeks we had nearly full capacity at our venues.”

The Claret Jug competition is sponsored by Molston Coors Beverage Company.

Speaking of the success of this year’s fundraiser, Howel said: “Under the unusual circumstances, we are delighted to have raised £4,000 in a season when we wouldn’t have made any cash whatsoever otherwise.

“Our thanks go to all the golf clubs that place their facilities at our disposal throughout the year. But most of all to the generosity of all the golfers taking part in the competitions for the Cup/Bowl and Claret Jug. We would like to thank our faithful sponsors for their help in keeping the running costs down making it easier to donate the cash to the Wales Air Ambulance.”

The charity’s South Wales Fundraising Manager, Mark Stevens, said: “We are absolutely delighted and honoured to receive another fantastic donation from the SWSC. Despite the pandemic forcing many of the events to be cancelled, the members didn’t give up and raised a fantastic £4,000 for the charity. We are truly grateful.

“The continued commitment from the clubs and dedication to raising funds for the Wales Air Ambulance is fantastic. Their support over the years has helped us keep our helicopters flying.

“We would like to thank all the clubs who have taken part, and a special thank you goes to all the sponsors who have donated towards the prizes”