Fundraising efforts during the Scottish Open have resulted in more than £70,000 being raised to help sick children across the north-east.
The generosity of golfing stars, local businesses and the public during the prestigious golf tournament at Royal Aberdeen ensured a tremendous boost to The ARCHIE Foundation’s tenth anniversary appeal.
The fundraising was spearheaded by the golfers themselves through the Birdie Pledge – with Aberdeen Asset Management donating a combined total of £10 for every birdie and £20 for every eagle made during the championship.
A total of 1512 birdies and 66 eagles were carded, as well as a special £1665 ‘bonus’ from the hole in one eagles made by Frenchman Francois Calmels and Englishman Tom Lewis in the opening round.
This resulted in £18,105 being secured for ARCHIE which brought the total amount raised to £73,255.
David Cunningham, chief executive of The ARCHIE Foundation, said: “The incredible generosity of the players, the European Tour, Aberdeen Asset Management and the many, many individuals who bought prize draw tickets will have a lasting legacy for sick children here in the north of Scotland.
“Their combined support will allow us to make an incredible difference for a number of children when they really need that help the most. We are extremely grateful to have been involved in this exciting partnership.”
The funds raised from the tournament will benefit the charity’s work at the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital (RACH), as well as the children’s ward at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness and Dr Gray’s children’s ward in Elgin.
It will also be used to fund projects in community hospitals throughout the north-east and the Northern Isles.
David Park, charity executive for the European Tour, said the organisation was very proud of the positive impact the tournament had on ARCHIE and RACH.
He added: “Thank you to everyone from Aberdeen Asset Management, as the title sponsor, the players, public and all those who contributed to this wonderful total, that we hope will leave a lasting legacy of the championship’s time in Aberdeen.”