Hartson launches celebrity golf day

Former Celtic and Wales international footballer John Hartson donned some interesting golf gear as he launched his charity’s first ever golf challenge in Scotland to aid the fight against testicular cancer.

Hartson was at the Carrick Golf Course, along with fellow former Celts Frank McAvennie and Murdo MacLeod, to launch the John Hartson Foundation’s celebrity golf day that will take place at the Loch Lomond venue.

The day sold out in the space of a week, and will see a host of stars from the world of sport turn out and show their support.

“We’re raising awareness of testicular cancer in the hope that men will get the message about checking themselves and not leave it as long as I did if they have any worrying symptoms.” – John Hartson

England legends Alan Shearer and Ian Wright will participate alongside Celtic manager Neil Lennon and his assistant Johan Mjallby, Rangers boss Ally McCoist and ex-Ibrox stars Andy Goram, Derek Johnstone and Bert Konterman. BBC Football Focus presenter Dan Walker will also show of his skills on the course on March 18.

Away from football, European tour pro Marc Warren and ex-Westlife singer Brian McFadden will also play in the event.

“We’ve had a lot of fun today at the beautiful Carrick course, launching my Foundation’s first celebrity golf event in Scotland,” said Hartson.

“We have great support from some big names and I’m really looking forward to welcoming everyone and catching up with some old friends.

“I’m sure it will be a great experience for everyone involved but there’s a serious side to it all too – we’re raising awareness of testicular cancer in the hope that men will get the message about checking themselves and not leave it as long as I did if they have any worrying symptoms.

“I nearly died because I ignored lumps on my testicle and I don’t want other families to go through the same heartache and worry that mind did. We also want to raise as much money as possible to help us provide support to people with cancer and their families.”

John Hartson Foundation

The Foundation was set in 2009 following Hartson’s battle with testicular cancer, which spread to his lungs and brain, leaving him fighting for his life. The charity raises awareness of testicular cancer and supports people with cancer and their families.

The golf day will be followed by a gala dinner in Cameron House from 7pm. A limited number of tables are now on sale for £1,000 per table of 10.

Exclusive sponsorship packages for the golf day are also available. For details contact John Hartson Foundation UK Fundraising Manager Libby Emmerson on 07961543254.