The 2017 Marks & Spencer Ireland Marie Keating Foundation Celebrity Golf Classic took place on the Palmer Course at the K Club today, which is considered one of Europe’s finest championship courses. Now in its 19th year, the highly-anticipated flagship event has become recognised as one of the most prestigious Irish charity golf tournaments. A host of celebrities from the world of sports and entertainment descended on the beautiful surrounds of the K Club to enjoy a tremendous day of golf followed by a gala dinner, prize giving ceremony and entertainment.

Proudly supported by Marks & Spencer Ireland, this esteemed annual event raises vital funds for the Foundation’s cancer awareness programmes and support services for men and women. The Marie Keating Foundation’s nursing team and Mobile Information Units visit over 25,400 people a year to talk about cancer prevention and early detection, while the Foundation’s Comfort Fund provides financial assistance to families who are struggling financially as a result of cancer. The funds from this year’s event will be designated to support the Marie Keating Foundation’s mobile outreach service supporting 8 nurses on 3 mobile units who are bringing the vital cancer prevention and early detection message to communities throughout the country.

As a son of Marie Keating and Patron of the Foundation, Ronan Keating hosts this spectacular event every year at which teams of three golfers are joined by a celebrity teammate. This year saw over 30 teams participate and enthusiastic guests got the opportunity to play with an array of high profile international celebrities and sporting legends including Dougray Scott, Denise Van Outen, Shane Byrne, Mike Tindall, Brian Ormond, Ken Doherty, Ray Houghton and Ronnie Whelan. Before the game, participants got the opportunity to perfect their technique with three-time major championship winner and Irish golfing legend Pádraig Harrington as he hosted an interactive golf clinic for all attendees.

Speaking at the fabulous event, Ronan Keating commented “I’m delighted to be back for this year’s golf classic, which is one of the most exciting events in the Marie Keating Foundation’s calendar. It’s a fantastic day but it also has a serious impact because the funds that we raise today help the Foundation make a real difference in the fight against cancer year-round. The Foundation relies almost entirely on the support of organisations, businesses and individuals across the country. So, I’m delighted to see the support from so many great friends from the world of music, entertainment and sport as well as companies and people who have taken teams. They are helping us reach our fundraising target of €50,000. In particular, I would like to say a massive thank you to Marks & Spencer Ireland whose longstanding support has been incredible, both in terms of their amazing fundraising efforts and in helping us raise awareness of cancer nationwide.”

Also speaking at the event, Carmel Breheny, Marketing & PR Manager for Marks & Spencer Ireland said “As with every year, Marks & Spencer Ireland is honoured to support the Marie Keating Foundation which provides vital support to patients, their families and friends at times when they need it most. This is the 15^th year we have been proudly supporting the charity and I’m thrilled to announce we have raised over €2 million for the Foundation to date.”