Lawrence, Kansas, United States: The Toro Company donated US$8,849 to the GCSAA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), in honour of GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans’ recent summit of Mount Everest.  

The donation amount represents the total number of metres (8,849 metres) to the summit of Mount Everest, the highest point on earth. 

Toro announced the gift in conjunction with the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show in San Diego where Evans spoke about ‘leading out’ at Toro’s Global Business Meeting.

Toro also commissioned a painting of Evans ascending the mountain, which was presented to him during the event. 

Evans said: “Toro’s continued generosity and support of GCSAA undoubtedly enriches the future of this industry and furthers the important work of the GCSAA Foundation. I’m grateful for Toro’s unwavering commitment to the association and the golf course management profession.”

Toro is the exclusive presenting partner of Rounds 4 Research and a long-time partner of the GCSAA Foundation, donating more than US$2.7 million since 1987 to help support scientific research, education and scholarships for future turfgrass professionals.

This month, they announced a US$50,000 gift to the GCSAA Foundation for their continued support of Rounds 4 Research.

“This donation symbolises the dedication, perseverance and passion that drive both Rhett’s incredible Mount Everest summit and the achievements of GCSAA members within their communities,” said Marnie Wells, President, The Toro Company Foundation.

“We are proud to support the GCSAA Foundation and its mission to advance the future of turfgrass management,” added Wells.

*Toro is an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.