Adult and junior golfers will put their skills to the test at Government House on Saturday to help raise money for cancer treatment centre Pals.

Over 140 men and women’s golfers starting from the age of 6 have already registered for the Brian Morris Closest to the Pin Charity Event, being held in memory of the late Ocean View Golf Club head professional, with more expected to join on the day of competition.

Morris came up with the concept in an attempt to increase awareness of the relationship between Ocean View and Government House, while also strengthening the relationship between Government House and the community and raising funds for a charity of the Governor’s choice.

But sadly he passed away in January after a long battle against brain cancer just two weeks after meeting with Governor Rena Lalgie to discuss preliminary details of the event. However, his fellow organising committee members decided to go ahead with plans to stage the competition in his honour.

“This was Brian’s dream and after he passed we decided to still have this event in his honour,” Cheryl-Lynne Thompson, the Ocean View Golf Club president, said. “So we are extremely happy that it’s taking place and so appreciative.”

Thompson has been blown away by the number of participants taking part.

“The response is phenomenal but then that was Brian,” she added. “Anything that he touched he had that golden touch and made everything happen to an extreme level, so that was really no surprise.

“We just want to thank our sponsors who jumped right in as well and everybody else that made any sort of contribution or donation to the event.

“We also extend our heartfelt appreciation out to Her Excellency Governor Rena Lalgie and the staff who have pitched in to make it all happen.”

OJ Pitcher, the Ocean View Golf Club assistant professional, is also moved by the level of support shown towards the event.

“We are appreciative to everyone that has come out to support,” he said. “We knew it would be a good turnout with the support and love Brian had in the community and golf industry period.

“He was a fun-loving guy full of life and we expected nothing different to get the turnout we have for the first year, which is always the hardest in terms of preparation and making sure everything is in place.

“Ms Thompson our president has been great and always willing to jump in and help out when needed. She has been excellent.”

Adult men will compete over a separate distance from women and children.

Among those taking part is event host Governor Lalgie.“I am not a golfer, but I do plan on taking part in the challenge,” she said. “My family and I are excited to host the Brian Morris Closest to the Pin Charity Event at Government House.”

The event will be held between 10am and 5pm.