Since its launch in 2003, Driving for Life has evolved into one of the most impactful fundraising initiatives supporting ALS research.This program, spearheaded by legendary golfer Tom Watson and inspired by the ALS diagnoses of his caddie and close friend Bruce Edwards and fellow golfer Jeff Julian, has raised more than $9 million to support research at the ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI). Along the way, it has also fostered a sense of community among golf enthusiasts determined to help end ALS.

A Personal Mission Becomes a National Movement

In 2003, Bruce Edwards, Tom Watson’s longtime caddie, was diagnosed with ALS. Later that year, Watson’s outstanding performance at the U.S. Open became the backdrop for the campaign’s launch. Together with Edwards and fellow golfer Jeff Julian, who was also battling ALS, Watson announced the launch of the Driving for Life program on NBC’s Today Show.

Both Bruce Edwards and Jeff Julian passed away from ALS in 2004. Their legacies, however, live on through Driving for Life, which continues to inspire individuals and communities to use their love of golf to drive progress in ALS research. In its first year, 23 charity golf events were organized, growing to more than 50 by 2006. Each event brought golfers together to raise funds and awareness for ALS research.

Organizing Your Own Driving for Life Tournament

Driving for Life empowers community champions to organize golf tournaments with robust support from ALS TDI’s events team. Whether you’re paying tribute to a loved one or simply want to support a great cause, organizing a Driving for Life tournament allows participants to make a meaningful impact in the fight against ALS.

To get started, champions collaborate with ALS TDI, which provides comprehensive resources, including:

  • Event Planning Tools: Support with setting up an event website, online registration, and timeline management.
  • Promotional Materials: Customizable flyers, marketing, and social media support to spread the word.
  • Branded Swag: Items such as golf balls and tees to distribute to participants, pending fundraising goals.
  • Fundraising Guidance: Coaching on securing sponsorships, creating budgets, and hosting raffles or auctions.

Community champions are responsible for key aspects of their tournaments, such as selecting a venue, assembling a volunteer committee, and managing event-day logistics. To enhance the experience, tournaments often include contests like Closest to the Pin or Longest Drive, alongside raffles and auctions to boost donations. Champions are also encouraged to tap into their personal networks and local communities for support, ensuring every event is both impactful and rewarding.

Highlights from the Journey

Driving for Life events continue to thrive as impactful community gatherings, uniting participants in the shared mission to end ALS. Standout events in recent years include:

  • Rex Mook Memorial Golf Tournament: Launched in 2024 at Hidden Valley Country Club in Salem, VA, this tournament honors the legacy of Rex Mook, who passed away from ALS in 2023. Friends and family gathered to celebrate his legacy and his love for golf while raising over $40,000 in its inaugural year to support ALS TDI’s mission to end ALS.
  • Brewing a Cure Goes Golfing: This unique hybrid event combines a golf tournament with a craft beer festival. Participants enjoy 18 holes of golf with beer tastings from local breweries along the course, followed by an after-party with live music, raffles, and more, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
  • The 100 Hole Challenge to Beat ALS: On June 18th, 2024, golfers Alex Litt and Cory Sullivan took on the incredible challenge of playing 100 holes of golf in a single day in honor of their fathers, who had both been diagnosed with ALS. With a remarkable fundraising total exceeding $275,000 in 2024, the event exemplifies the power of perseverance and community in advancing ALS research.

What is ALS?

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects motor neurons, leading to a loss of muscle function. Approximately 1 in 400 people will develop ALS in their lifetime, and the average life expectancy following diagnosis is just three to five years. Despite its devastating impact, ALS research remains underfunded. For the vast majority of people with ALS, there are no effective treatments or cures, but researchers at ALS TDI are working relentlessly to change that.

ALS Research at ALS TDI

The ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI) is the world’s foremost nonprofit biotech company dedicated solely to ALS research. With 87 cents of every dollar raised directly funding research, ALS TDI focuses on discovering and developing effective treatments for everyone with ALS. By supporting ALS TDI, Driving for Life ensures that every contribution makes a tangible impact on advancing ALS research and offering hope to patients and their families.

How You Can Make a Difference

Whether you’re an avid golfer, a beginner, or someone passionate about supporting ALS research, Driving for Life offers numerous ways to get involved:

  • Host a Tournament: ALS TDI provides a comprehensive toolkit to help you plan and execute a successful event.
  • Participate in an Event: Visit als.net to find a tournament near you.
  • Donate: Contributions of any size directly support ALS research and bring hope to those affected by the disease.

Continuing the Fight Against ALS

Driving for Life is more than a fundraising campaign; it’s a testament to the power of community and shared purpose. By supporting ALS TDI’s groundbreaking research, participants are driving progress toward a future without ALS. As Tom Watson said, “If we can help raise awareness for this disease, we’re that much closer to finding a cure.”

Join Driving for Life today and be part of the journey to end ALS. Visit drivingforlife.als.net to learn more, get involved, and make a difference, one swing at a time.

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