Stars for Starlight.
PENRITH golfer Matt Newton will swing for the Starlight Children’s Foundation this week, attempting to break the official Guinness World Record of 756 holes played in 24 hours – or 42 complete 18-hole courses!
His marathon forms a part of X-Golf Australia’s annual Starlight Swing charity month, a nationwide initiative uniting golfing communities across 27 locations in a bid to grant five life-changing wishes for seriously ill children.
“When you see what Starlight does – the happiness they bring to kids doing it tough – it hits you,” Matt said. “This is a cause very close to our hearts, so every swing and every blister will be worth it!”
The record-breaking attempt will be held at X-Golf Penrith at 55-61 York Road from 5pm Saturday, 22 November, with locals and supporters invited to come along and cheer him on. To complete the world record, Matt will be on his feet swinging for the entire 24-hour period, forgoing sleep and being kept energised via the on-site kitchen and with moral support from their lively western Sydney community.
X-Golfers far and wide have been playing on the course throughout November and have so far raised over $3,000 towards the $37,500 goal.
Having undergone chemotherapy for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2014, X-Golf’s Peter Nolan knows first-hand the difference fundraising support can make.
“It was wonderful to witness the positivity the Starlight Children’s Foundation brings to children during challenging times,” Peter said. “And it’s really rewarding to see our team’s dedication to making an impact like this. What Matt’s doing goes right to the heart of what X-Golf stands for – community, courage and making a change.”
Matt is calling for support from the western Sydney community to make his 24-hour attempt an official Guinness World Record. “I’m just one golfer, with a big goal, but it’s the people around me who will make this a success,” he said.
“I’m calling on our local community, nearby businesses and friends everywhere to get behind this and help turn every hole I play into a moment of happiness for a child who really needs it.”
To get involved in the Starlight Swing with up to three friends at a location closest to you, or to make a donation, visit www.xgolf.com.au/starlight-swing/
