Rounds 4 Research Program Launched

February 6, 2013

At a recent meeting of the BCGSA Board, it was decided to enter into a fundraising campaign to raise funds for Turfgrass Research and Environmental Advocacy by participating in the Rounds 4 Research program.

In 2012 the Environmental Institute for Golf (GCSAA’s philanthropic organization) announced that it would be conducting Rounds 4 Research after the Carolinas GCSA administered it on a smaller scale for three years. In its first year as a nationwide program, Rounds 4 Research raised more than $150,000 with the assistance of 51 GCSAA affiliated chapters and other organizations that joined the cause as fundraising partners.

So why is the BCGSA involved in Rounds 4 Research? Quite frankly, we are operating in an unsustainable manner in addressing many of our needs. We know research dollars are getting tougher to generate. We know that we need to engage with local and state lawmakers to advocate on behalf of our game and business. In short, we have needs that we cannot sustain with the resources we generate by ourselves, and our industry partners. This organization will forward 80% of the proceeds from the sale of rounds back to the BCGSA to be used for the Turfgrass Research and Environmental Advocacy.

Rounds 4 Research is based on the practice of securing donated rounds of golf and putting them up for public auction. This mechanism provides for the end user – the golfer – to contribute directly to activities that ultimately benefit them, their facilities and the game.

While the funds come from golfers, the onus is on us as a chapter to build an inventory of rounds. I am asking each of you to work with your facility leadership to secure one tee-time (defined as a foursome) for 2014. You can do this by completing the online donation form at www.rounds4research.com. In 2014, auction dates are June 9-22 and August 1-10. We would like to participate in both of the auctions if we procure the support of our members on and rounds are due by April 15, 2014 and June 16, 2014 for each auction.

I am excited about the opportunity presented to us. But this will take a commitment by each and every one of us to secure donated rounds and promote the program to our golfers / patrons / members. I ask that you donate a round today so that we have a healthy profession, industry and game for years to come.

Sincerely,

Stephen Kerbrat
BCGSA Vice President

The British Columbia Golf Superintendents Association is a dedicated group of turf grass professionals. The Association is committed to providing the best playing conditions for golfers around the world.