Once again, we were proud to put our name to the County Cricket Golf Day, recently held at Wychwood Park golf club, near Crewe. It’s a remarkable event, featuring all 18 first-class Counties competing for the County Cricket Golf Cup, with each team represented by a county legend.
C&C’s stalwart golfing ambassadors included Malc, playing for Lancashire, and Tom, Jake and Andy playing for Yorkshire. And they were in good company, with giants of the red ball game such as Graham Gooch, Mike Gatting, Ashley Giles, Warren Hegg and Michael Lumb all in attendance, along with many others.
The weather was the polar opposite of last year’s cold and damp affair, with scorchio being the word of the day. Inevitably the better conditions translated into better performances. Either that, or participants were taking it more seriously and had decided to practice this year! Last year, a fairly tepid 85 points from Lancashire took the silverware but this year Sussex stole the day with 99 points.
Naturally, Malc was disappointed not to have helped retain the crown for Lancs, but on the other hand, two wins on the bounce only builds pressure for next year – and who wants that?!
The C&C brand could be seen everywhere from players’ shirts & caps, to tees, balls, markers, banners, menus and score sheets. And given our growing presence across iconic stadia such as Old Trafford, Headingley and The Oval, it felt an obvious fit to once again sponsor the entire cricket-focused event.
The fun and laughter then continued into the evening with entertainment provided by BGT semi-finalist, Faith Tucker and magician to royalty, Michael Fitch.
The event was organised by John Morris, ex Derbyshire and England cricketer, to raise funds for the Cricketers’ Trust – the body that has represented the interests of every professional cricketer, regardless of league, for over 50 years. Something which feels very poignant given the very recent death of David (Syd) Lawrence from Motor Neurone Disease. Syd had been supported through the Cricketers’ Trust, so fundraising through events such as this really does impact the lives of those who have lived the game, but for whatever reason, struggle in later life.
The event raised around £15,000 for the charity, and it was a privilege to have been such an integral part of contributing to that total.
Malc says: “This is such a brilliant day to be a part of. The worlds of cricket and golf coming together with the business community to help raise much-needed funds for the essential work of the Cricketers’ Trust is just outstanding. But in addition to achieving that very important goal, it’s also a lot of fun, not without competitive spirit, but I wouldn’t expect anything less given the company we were in! A heartfelt thanks to all the organisers and to all the legends who are still keen to give back to the sport that has given them so much. I’m thoroughly looking forward to next year already!”
