Published: Wednesday, 1st July, 2009 3:18pm

Muckhart golfers take on record-breaking challenge

by Elaine Birse

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A PAIR of former Muckhart golfers set a new British record of playing 108 holes and travelling more than 350 miles in just one day.

Mike Balfour and Alistair Hunter, joined Justin Jeffery and Paul White, to become the first people to play all six English golf courses, which have hosted the Open Championship, in 24 hours .

The challenge was in aid of the Willow Foundation and raised over £100,000 for the charity.

The team tee"d off in Kent at 4.15am on the Longest Day (21 June) and completed the challenge in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire, before it got dark at 10pm.

A twin-engine helicopter jetted the team across the country to achieve their one-day goal but despite this luxury the golfers weren"t allowed buggies or caddies on the day, walking an estimated 35 miles in total over the six courses.

The Willow Foundation was set up by former Arsenal and Scotland goalkeeper and TV presenter, Bob Wilson and his wife Megs.

It provides special days for seriously ill 16 to 40 year olds throughout the UK and this year celebrates its tenth anniversary.

Supported by world famous golfers and sportsmen, Nick Faldo, Ian Poulter, Paul McGinley, Ricky Hatton and Lee Dixon, amongst others, the foursome are well on their way to sponsorship that will fund 100 Willow Foundation special days.

Mr Wilson, said, 'This was an amazing challenge demanding organisation, fitness, concentration and supreme energy from four men with extraordinary 'drive"!

'A huge thank you from everyone at Willow and particularly those who stand to benefit.'

The golfers played at Princes in Sandwich, Kent; Royal St Georges in Sandwich; Royal Cinque Ports in Deal; Royal Liverpool in Hoylake; Royal Birkdale in Southport; and Royal Lytham & St Annes.

Mike and Alistair are originally from Muckhart but now live in Edinburgh and near London, respectively.

To date the Willow Foundation has provided more than 4750 special days to people living with cancer, cystic fibrosis, motor neurone disease, muscular dystrophy, organ failure and Huntington"s, amongst other conditions.

This year the Willow Foundation will provide 1450 special days.