Rounds 4 Research Raises $115,000 for Turfgrass Studies

The first phase of the 2014 Rounds 4 Research fundraising program for turfgrass studies, run by the Environmental Institute For Golf (EIFG), sold more than 600 rounds and yielded $115,500 in the June online auction. The total was a 7 percent increase over a year ago. The EIFG is the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GSCAA).

The Carolinas Golf Course Superintendents Association was the leader with more than $35,000 raised among more than 45 fundraising partners that donated rounds for turfgrass research at the local level. The top bid was $1,800 for a stay-and-play package offered by French Lick Resort at West Baden Springs, Ind., while the high bid for a tee time for four golfers was $1,508 for the chance to play at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, home to the PGA TOUR Championship.

"We are pleased with the success of our Rounds 4 Research program and the good that we know it can do for turfgrass research," said Rhett Evans, GCSAA chief executive officer. "This is a terrific program that gives golfers everywhere a chance to play their favorite courses and benefit the long-term health of the game."

The second auction for Rounds 4 Research will run from Aug. 1-10, to coincide with the PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Ky. Online bidding will be offered at www.rounds4research.com.

The national campaign is supported by a $50,000 donation from The Toro Co. The program has raised more than $290,000 since being launched in 2012.

About the EIFG  The EIFG is the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, and has as its mission to foster sustainability through research, awareness, education, programs and scholarships for the benefit of golf course management professionals, golf facilities and the game. With respect for the game and the environment, the EIFG inspires environmental, social and economic progress through golf for the benefit of communities. Collaboration between the golf industry, environmental interests and communities will lead to programs and services beneficial to all who come into contact with the game of golf. Visit the EIFG at www.eifg.org.