Golf Tournament in memory of Bambisanani hero raises funds for Cancer Research

The Martin Green Memorial Golf Tournament remembers a remarkable man who whilst a teacher at St. Mary’s School, Menston played an important role in developing the Bambisanani Partnership – a unique charity that uses the power of sport to change lives of some of the poorest children in South Africa. The Eleventh Annual Tournament was held at East Morton Golf Club, as it always is, and raised £850 for Cancer Research UK. Over the past eleven years this event has now raised over £13,150 for the charity.

As has happened before with this event, the weather completely defied a terrible forecast and the day was a tremendous success, marked with wonderful camaraderie, great fun, superb hospitality and some outstanding golf. 28 people played in the 18-hole Stableford tournament with many others making generous donations and providing prizes.

The winner of the 2025 Martin Green Memorial Trophy was former St. Mary’s student and Bambisanani supporter Joseph Geldart with a very impressive 43 Stableford points. It was a great day for Joe as he also won the Longest Drive competition. Runner up in the tournament was Sam Bennett with 38 points and in third place was Damian McGrath with 36 points. The Straightest Drive competition was won by Simon Eagles and the Nearest the Pin competition was won by Simon Bennett. The Putting prize went to Andy Doherty for a remarkable third year in a row. The awards this year were presented by Alex Smickersgill.

Tournament Champion, Joe Geldart said, “It’s a real honour to be part of this day, let alone win something. Martin was my teacher and a great friend of my dad’s – it’s fantastic to remember him in this way and raise money for Cancer Research.”

The event was organised by former friends and colleagues of Martin; Alex Smickersgill, Catherine Chattoe, Michelle Hefferon and David Geldart. David said, “Massive thanks to everyone that played and supported the event in any way. We are indebted to Fred Heaton, Danny Halligan, Paul Rhodes for making it such a great occasion. Special thanks to all the organisations and individuals that provided an absolutely outstanding array prizes and refreshments. Thank you of course to St. Mary’s School and all the team East Morton Golf Club who always go the extra mile to ensure that this tournament is a tremendous success and celebration. We are already looking forward to next year’s competition which will be our 12th Anniversary event and edging towards a target of raising £15,000 for Cancer Research UK.”

The tournament incurs costs of around £200 and for next year we would like to find a sponsor for this amount so that more money can go to support Cancer Research UK – if you can help in any way please contact Alex Smickersgill alex.smickersgill@gmail.com or David Geldart d.geldart@bambisananipartnership.org

www.bambisananipartnership.org