In the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian, which devastated many parts of the The Bahamas, various relief efforts are underway including several in the golf industry.
In the video above, Matt Ginella shares details in the above clip from Golf Channel Morning Drive. The Bahamas are roughly 700 islands and some were affected by the hurricane far greater than others. Nassau and Atlantis, for example, are open for business, while Grand Bahama and Great Abaco island, home of The Abaco Club, felt the brunt of the wrath as the Category 5 storm moved slowly over them.
Tiger Woods recently announced a partnership with Justin Timberlake in creating the One Bahamas fund. They have pledged to donate $6 million and will match funds donated by the publish with a minimum goal of $12 million.
Nassau and Atlantis are open for business but are also asking for contributions on behalf of the devastated islands. You can donate to the Atlantis Bahamas Hurricane Relief Fund at this GoFundMe page. 100% of proceeds go to the Bahamas Red Cross to fund relief efforts throughout the Bahamas.
Ginella mentions a fund being set up by Bass Pro Shops and Big Cedar Lodge founder Johnny Morris. Anglers for the Bahamas charity page has been set up and can be viewed here. Proceeds will go to Convoy of Hope, an international humanitarian organization.
Meanwhile, The Abaco Club on Great Abaco island, suffered extensive damage. They have set up a specific charity for fundraising efforts.
Please join us in supporting the people of Abaco – click to contribute now to the relief effort: https://t.co/7HTrjZE1c8 pic.twitter.com/hUJ2DqR6gP
— The Abaco Club (@TheAbacoClub) September 4, 2019
South, North Carolina destinations rebound
Notable coastal Carolina golf destinations are reporting they were largely unscathed from any long-term damage by the storm as the peak fall golf season begins to pick up. Kiawah Island reports that The Sanctuary Hotel and all five golf courses were open by September 9th. Myrtle Beach area golf courses were similarly back to normal operations by that weekend.
“It’s business as usual for us,” said Chris Cooper, general manager at Tidewater Golf Club. “You wouldn’t even know a hurricane was here. The entire golf course is in great shape, so we were really fortunate.”
Hilton Head Island suffered storm damage but by September 6th Sea Pines was welcoming guests back.
"We’re back in business! Hurricane Dorian passed our shores with virtually no impact, allowing us to quickly reopen our restaurants, shops, golf courses, tennis center and all our other facilities and amenities. While we’re keeping those affected by the storm in our thoughts and prayers, we look forward to welcoming you back to our beautiful resort. The weather is fabulous!" - Sea Pines Resort Facebook update, September 6th.
