Genworth’s ‘Putts for Charity’ initiative provides winning formula at the Barclays Scottish Open

Now in its third season, Genworth Financial’s 'Putts for Charity' initiative helps raise funds for good causes by challenging the general public to make a successful 'one putt' on specially constructed greens at various stops along The European Tour. For each successful one putt made by visitors to the Barclays Scottish Open (July 9-12), the Genworth Foundation gave a £1 donation to charity. Similarly, for every one putt made by European Tour Members competing in the tournament, £2 was donated, helping to raise over £18,000 for SOS Children’s Villages.

Genworth Financial, a European Tour sponsor and specialist insurance company, developed 'Putts for Charity' in 2007 through a partnership with The Tour Players Foundation, the charitable arm of The European Tour. At Loch Lomond, the public were able to line-up their one-putts on a spectacular six hole putting green in the sponsors’ village, created with the assistance of Barclays. Genworth Brand Ambassador Ross Fisher added his support by visiting the putting greens to sink a 'big money' one putt, an example which inspired fellow professionals Paul Lawrie, Oliver Wilson and Boo Weekley to join in the fun.

“Since we started ‘Putts for Charity’ three years ago Genworth and our partners have raised over €300,000 through this initiative,” said Martin Ring from the Genworth Foundation. “SOS is a hugely deserving cause which we are proud to support in 2009.” Caroline Baker from SOS Children added: “Thanks to Genworth’s kind support, more orphaned and abandoned children will be able to grow up within a family environment for life. ‘Putts for Charity’ has not only provided vital financial support for SOS activity, but has also generated valuable awareness for our social development work around the world helping to transform the lives of vulnerable children.”