Smith, Leishman pledge birdies, eagles for bushfires
Australian golfers Cameron Smith and Marc Leishman have taken to Instagram ahead of the Sony Open this week to pledge their support for those affected by the Australian bushfires.
The Aussies join the likes of American sisters Nelly and Jessica Korda to pledge donations via their performances in upcoming tournaments.
Cameron Smith (Credit: Anthony Powter)
Smith, who hails from Brisbane, posted his plans to donate $500 for every birdie and $1,000 for every eagle at this week’s Sony Open.
“Australia is burning, and I’m lost for words!” Smith posted to his almost 30,000 Instagram followers.
“Have personally had family members effected by the disaster, and it’s only the start of fire season. If anyone can donate, even the smallest amounts, clothes, blankets etc it all counts. Everyone stay safe and my thoughts are with you!! Let’s make some birdies!”
Leishman, who grew up in country Victoria, will also donate $500 per birdie and $1,000 per eagle this week. The 36-year-old finished equal 3rd at last year’s Sony Open, firing over twenty birdies along the way.
“Shattering to see the devastation the bushfires have caused so far, but great to see the Australian spirit come through with all the support.”
“The Leishman family want to get involved. I will be donating $500 for every birdie and $1,000 for every eagle I make during the @sonyopenhawaii.”
The Korda sisters, whose famous tennis-playing father won the Australian Open in the late 90′s, are promising $150 for every birdie and $300 for every they make during the LPGA’s two-event Florida Swing, which begins next week in Orlando, Florida.
“Hey Australia! Since you hold such a special place in my heart I’ve decided to donate $150 for every birdie and $300 for every eagle for the first 3 events of my @LPGA season. Fingers crossed for lots of BIRDIES & EAGLES!” posted Nelly Korda.
With the Australian bushfires gaining worldwide traction on social media in the last couple of weeks, there is sure to be even more financial support coming our way…and we need every dollar with the end of the disaster nowhere in sight.
