Golf unites behind Ukraine in fundraising appeal
Golfers around the world are being asked to unite in an industry-wide effort to support children and families affected by the war in Ukraine
The R&A, PGA Tour, and DP World Tour are among the golf bodies who have thrown their backing behind Golfers For Ukraine, an appeal to raise donations to support UNICEF’s work in the country.
“There are no winners here,” the campaign website says. “No victories to be had. And no business edge. We just want to make a stand for what we believe is right and to invite everyone who feels the same way to join us.”
The total already stands at more than $500,000 and the hashtag #GolfersforUkraine is urging everyone to stand with the country and make a difference.
UNICEF is on the ground in Ukraine, providing aid to children and families by trucking water to conflict-affected areas and ensuring emergency supplies are as close as possible to those near the conflict line.
The charity has also set up safe spaces for families in neighbouring countries called ‘Blue Dots’ with key information, safe spaces, and the protection of unattended children.
The R&A said: “The golfing community stands together for Ukraine, with organisations across the world uniting in their support.
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“The R&A is truly saddened by what is happening and like many others want to help. We are working with other leading golf bodies to offer support by donating to UNICEF’s work in Ukraine.
“Together we can make a significant difference and support UNICEF to deliver urgently needed materials such as health supplies, water and sanitation supplies, winter clothes for children, recreational kits and early childhood development kits to help with psychosocial support.”
PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan said: “Our hearts go out to the people of Ukraine and those caught in the crosshairs of the conflict. We hope for an end to this senseless violence and a peaceful resolution. The game of golf has a way of rallying around important causes and this is one.”
As well as making donations, golfers are showing their support at events across the globe by wearing blue and yellow ribbons.
You can make a donation on the Golfers for Ukraine website and spread the word by using the #GolfersforUkraine hashtag on your social media platforms.
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Steve Carroll
A journalist for 25 years, Steve has been immersed in club golf for almost as long. A former club captain, he has passed the Level 3 Rules of Golf exam with distinction having attended the R&A's prestigious Tournament Administrators and Referees Seminar.
Steve has officiated at a host of high-profile tournaments, including Open Regional Qualifying, PGA Fourball Championship, English Men's Senior Amateur, and the North of England Amateur Championship. In 2023, he made his international debut as part of the team that refereed England vs Switzerland U16 girls.
A part of NCG's Top 100s panel, Steve has a particular love of links golf and is frantically trying to restore his single-figure handicap. He currently floats at around 11.
Steve plays at Close House, in Newcastle, and York GC, where he is a member of the club's matches and competitions committee and referees the annual 36-hole scratch York Rose Bowl.
Having studied history at Newcastle University, he became a journalist having passed his NTCJ exams at Darlington College of Technology.
What's in Steve's bag: TaylorMade Stealth 2 driver, 3-wood, and hybrids; TaylorMade Stealth 2 irons; TaylorMade Hi-Toe, Ping ChipR, Sik Putter.
