We couldn’t have asked for a better day! The sun was shining brightly over Fortwilliam Golf Club on Friday, setting the perfect stage for an exciting and meaningful event — the 2024 Oscar Knox Cup. With golfers taking to the green in pristine conditions, it was a day full of competitive fun, camaraderie, and, most importantly, support for an incredibly important cause.
Fortwilliam Golf Club once again provided the ideal backdrop for the day’s events. The lush, green fairways were filled with golfers from all walks of life, all united by a common cause – to support The Oscar Knox Fund and its work with Solving Kids’ Cancer UK. With the pristine course and the perfect weather, everyone was able to enjoy themselves while knowing their efforts were making a real impact in the fight against childhood cancer.
This year's event was particularly special as welcomed Olympic Gold Medalist Rhys McClenaghan to the tournament!
Rhys' participation added an extra layer of excitement to the day, as he teed off with style and grace, bringing some Olympic magic to the already fantastic atmosphere. It’s not every day that you get to share the course with a world-class athlete, and his presence certainly left a lasting impression on everyone involved.
Adding to the star-studded line-up were local Northern Irish sports icons Carl Frampton and Michael Conlan. Both of these renowned boxers took time out of their busy schedules to join in the day’s festivities, contributing to the fun and relaxed atmosphere while showing their unwavering support for a cause close to many hearts. Their presence was a real treat for participants and spectators alike, further highlighting the significance of the event.
However, the true highlight of the day was not just the great golf, celebrity appearances, or the beautiful weather — it was the overwhelming generosity of everyone involved. Thanks to the incredible efforts and support of golfers, sponsors, and attendees, we raised an astounding £27,333 this year for The Oscar Knox Fund! This monumental contribution brings the overall total raised by the Oscar Knox Cup to over £200,000 in support of Solving Kids’ Cancer UK.
The Oscar Knox Cup, held annually in memory of young Oscar Knox, continues to make a real difference in the fight against childhood cancer. Every penny raised goes directly toward funding life-saving research and treatments that could one day find a cure. The outpouring of support this year, just like in previous years, is a testament to the strong community spirit and the shared desire to make a difference in the lives of children and families affected by this devastating disease.
As title sponsors, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all those who played a part in making the 2024 Oscar Knox Cup such a huge success. Thank you to all sponsors, golfers, and supporters, whose contributions help ensure that the fight against childhood cancer continues. Every swing, donation, and gesture of support makes a tangible impact on the lives of children and their families facing cancer.
Philip Meehan, Marketing Manager, Balloo Hire said:
"It’s heartwarming to see so many people contribute to a cause that holds such deep significance to the community. The Oscar Knox Cup isn’t just an event; it’s a beacon of hope. We’re honoured to play a part in something that has the power to save lives.”
A huge thank you must go to Fortwilliam Golf Club, who went above and beyond to ensure everything ran smoothly. Their support, both in the run-up and throughout the event, was invaluable. The club’s exceptional facilities and dedicated staff made the day even more enjoyable for everyone in attendance."
As the 2024 Oscar Knox Cup comes to a close, the focus shifts to the future. With over £200,000 raised so far, the Oscar Knox Cup is more than just an annual golfing event – it’s a symbol of hope, compassion, and resilience for those impacted by childhood cancer. Each year, it continues to grow, and we can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store.
Oscar’s Mum Leona Knox, who is Head of Research at Solving Kids’ Cancer UK said;
“Childhood cancer research is massively underfunded, which is delaying the discovery of more effective and less toxic treatments to help children just like Oscar. Less than half of children diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma are alive 5 years after diagnosis. That is simply not good enough. Far too many families continue to be devastated in the same way that ours has been.
For more information, including booking and sponsorship opportunities for next years event, please email oscarknoxcup@gmail.com or contact Stephen Knox on +4477 4700 0052. To make a donation towards the event, please visit www.justgiving.com/page/oscarknoxcup2024