Local golfers trading birdies for breakthroughs as they tackle The Longest Day challenge
They'll be sinking putts from dawn to dusk, but for 110 Canberrans taking on Cancer Council ACT's The Longest Day, every swing counts towards a cancer-free future.
Local golfers and golf clubs are gearing up for the ultimate test of skill and stamina, with participants playing up to four rounds of golf in a single day- that's 72 holes, or roughly 32 kilometres of walking in 12 to 14 hours.
$26,000 has already been raised thus far, but it won't stop there, with a target of $80,000 in sight, these dedicated golfers are proving that endurance on the course can translate to life-saving impact.
The action heats up on Monday 1 December at Murrumbidgee Country Club, the ACT's largest host club, with close to 70 participants taking to the greens on the one day.
Among them is team, 2 Putt-Shakur- a name that's equal parts hip-hop homage and golf.
"I spend a bit of time searching for the ball in the tree line," admits Lloyd, the team's captain, with a laugh. "But this is bigger than golf - everyone knows someone affected by cancer."
The team of four saw The Longest Day as a chance to sharpen and test their skills while supporting a cause close to their hearts. "Every cent raised counts, as it goes towards research, prevention and supporting people through their cancer journey. I know it's really important to me, but it is also important to everyone here".
Cancer Council ACT CEO, Verity Hawkins agrees. "The Longest Day is something fun that friends can do together, while broadening the awareness of the work that Cancer Council does," she said. "Teams like 2 Putt-Shakur remind us of what can be achieved when we come together with a purpose."
Almost 1 in 2 Australians will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85 with skin cancer being the most common cancer in Australia.
The challenge runs throughout November and December, with teams across Canberra teeing off to help Cancer Council ACT fund local cancer research, prevention and support services here in the ACT.
Whether you're an amateur golfer or a golfing legend, The Longest Day welcomes players of all abilities to come together for a good cause. Join the golfing marathon and head to www.longestday.org.au to register.
