On October 9th Spence Clarke sent along its top-notch golfing gang to support the very worthy Battle Back Golf Charity Golf day, held at the lovely Añoreta course in Antequera. The day was well attended, and the feedback was that a great time was had by all and, most importantly, it proved a very successful day for the Charity too.
Battle Back Golf (BBG) is a UK registered charity, established in 2009. Its aim being to provide golfing education programmes, competitive opportunities, and equipment for the BBG cohort to enable the seriously injured service personnel to use golf as part of their physical and cognitive rehabilitation.
As the charity has a general policy of only working with golf clubs rather than individuals, it was quite a feat when Penny Bentley Ellis, with the offer of sun on the Costa del Sol, persuaded them to hold their golfing event on the Costa del Sol in October 2015, when six veterans flew over from the UK to play at the Baviera Golf Course. The number of veterans has now increased to 20. What a great achievement Penny!
The BBG golfing days are possible due to the generous support of local businesses and individuals. Due to Polly’s history in marshalling at major golfing events she has been able to use here golfing connections to secure many items from celebrity golfers for the golf day auction.
The event is always held during the first week of October. This is a good time of year here in Andalucía for golf as it is not too hot, and we still benefit from lots of beautiful mild sunshine.
The usual format for the day is three rounds of golf, then after the golf a meal at the club house with an auction. One of the attending veterans gives an after-dinner talk telling of their personal experiences.
This is now an official golf tour for BBG and although, due to Covid-19, the veterans were unable to attend this year, they are hoping to attend next year, and the military are asking if the number could be increased to 30!
In the spirit of the day our own Miguel Angel, having won a cash prize on the day, handed the winnings straight back for the benefit of the Charity. Well done Miguel, this is what we like to hear.
The tournaments do not have shotgun starts as the bang from the rocket could frighten some of the veterans. Some do get very emotional at the wonderful welcome they receive from the other golfers. Some Insist on knowing all the exits before they play. Some are very quiet. Some are very noisy. All deserve our utter respect and admiration for the sacrifice each one has made on our behalf. Spence Clarke are very proud to be a small part of this wonderful cause.
Next year’s events will be held at Los Moriscos, 6th October 2021 and Añoreta, 7th October 2021.
The charity raises money while the participants, sponsors and donations raise our spirits.
