MWS charity golf event rakes in $280,000

By Michelle Tan

FOR MANY, July 29, 2009 was just another work day. But for the Methodist Welfare Services (MWS), it was one of the most momentous days of the year – our annual charity golf event, Fellowship on the Greens 2009.

Both the MWS and the organising committee were initially worried about the impact of the challenging economic climate. But their fears were unfounded. By God’s grace, the target was surpassed and $280,000 was raised.

The event’s success would not have been possible without the help of Aldersgate Methodist Church, the convening church, which worked extremely hard to rope in sponsors and donations.

More than 200 golfers turned up at Tanah Merah Country Club to indulge in some golf, fellowship and good food. About 70 of them were early-risers and played in the morning due to the overwhelming response. Most of the participants arrived in the afternoon, together with the Guest-of-Honour, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, the Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports.

During the post-game dinner, the organising committee showed its appreciation to several donors and sponsors by presenting them with personalised plaques.

The top golfers were also rewarded. The Pastor’s Challenge trophy went to the Rev Dr Gordon Wong. Dr Balakrishnan also presented the Mrs Rosalyn Tay Cup to Ladies’ Division winner Kampong Kapor Methodist Church, the Dr Tay Eng Soon Cup and Mr Edwin Chan Cup to the Men’s Division champion and first runner-up churches. Taking home these cups were Bedok Methodist Church and Paya Lebar Methodist Church respectively.

Michelle Tan is the Executive (Communications) of the Methodist Welfare Services.