The 2011 finals of Macmillan Cancer Support’s Longest Day Challenge were held on 9th and 10th October at Boavista Golf resort near Lagos.

This unique fund-raising event has its roots in the UK where golfers are asked to form teams of four and then play four rounds (72 holes) in a day, raising money through sponsorship as they play. The winning teams are decided on a combination of the scores and the amount of money raised and the top four teams spent a weekend as guests of Boavista where they competed for the Longest Day Challenge Trophy.

Last year the golfers raised a massive £325,000 for the charity and this year that amount has already been surpassed with £365,000 in the kitty and money still coming in. The four teams who played in the final, from Chart Hills GC in Kent, Hillsborough GC in Sheffield, Fortrose & Rosemarkie GC near Inverness and Royal Ashdown Forest in Sussex contributed more than £35,000 between them towards that total. Phillip Pope, Boavista’s Managing Director said “We are delighted to lend our support to such a prestigious event for the third year running. It’s an absolute pleasure to be able to reward these players for their magnificent achievement.”

The final itself, played in glorious Algarvean sunshine, was won by the team from Royal Ashdown, “Tempus est Ludendi” who romped home with 88 points 12 more than nearest rivals, and last year’s winners, “The Trips” from Chart Hills.

If you wish to know more about the event or would like to take part and raise money for this worthwhile charity in the future please visit www.macmillan.org.uk/golf.