A memorable day: a look back at the Pink October competition in aid of the Paoli-Calmettes Institute.

The weather itself seemed to be in tune with the event: cloudless skies, bright sunshine and late-season mildness offered participants ideal conditions for a day out on the 18-hole course at Golf Bastide de la Salette.

Right from the start, the atmosphere was festive and supportive, with smiles on everyone’s faces. The event had a specific dress code to celebrate Pink October: pink and white. Men and women alike played the game with enthusiasm, sporting colorful outfits in harmony with the cause.

Every detail of the day had been carefully thought out to highlight the importance of breast cancer awareness. Departures were from pink balls, created especially for the occasion. This little symbolic touch added a special meaning to the course, and reminded everyone of the cause for which they were playing.

With entries open to all levels of play, the competition brought together experienced players and amateurs alike, in a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Above all, the aim was to rally together for a common cause, and enjoy a day of sharing around a sport that everyone loves. The competition format enabled players to compete in good spirits, with a touch of challenge, but always in a spirit of camaraderie and solidarity.

One of the highlights of the day was the drone animation generously provided by Tech n’ Drone, an innovative addition that left a lasting impression.

High above the 18 green, the drone captured spectacular images, immortalizing this unique day from the air. Symbolically, this high flight represented the collective support and drive to beat cancer, offering unprecedented views of the participants dressed in pink and white, united in a single drive. These images, shared on social networks, helped relay the message beyond the green, raising awareness among an even wider public.

The competition ended in style with a cocktail party organized and concocted by members of the golf club’s Sports Association (AS). Volunteers were able to get together over tasty bites, talk about their day, share recipes, anecdotes and laughter. This convivial moment allowed everyone to relax and enjoy the warm atmosphere.

The day ended with the traditional prize-giving ceremony, a moment rich in emotion and recognition. The best-performing participants were rewarded with prizes donated by local partners who, sympathetic to the cause, showed great generosity.

Prizes ranging from golf equipment to gourmet experiences were distributed, and each winner was warmly applauded.

Beyond the prizes, the ceremony was an opportunity to thank all those who had contributed to the success of the event. The commitment of the sponsors was essential, as they not only enriched the experience of the participants, but also increased the donations raised for the IPC.

One of the most striking results of the day was the sum raised for the Institut Paoli-Calmettes: a total of €3,620 was donated to the IPC.

This contribution represents much more than just a figure; it reflects the solidarity and commitment of participants, volunteers and partners. By mobilizing the golfing community in support of cancer research and care, this Pink October competition showed that sport can be a powerful vector for awareness and change.

This first edition of Pink October at Golf Bastide de la Salette in Marseille was a real success, and has already spawned a project for the future. Given the enthusiasm of the participants and the positive spin-offs of this event, we are already planning to repeat this initiative in 2025.

In conclusion, this day of competition in support of the IPC showed that golf can be much more than a sport: it can be a vehicle for solidarity and mobilization for important causes. Many thanks to all those who contributed in any way to the success of this event, whether by playing, organizing or making a donation.

See you in 2025 for another edition of Pink October, and until then, keep spreading this message of hope and support around you.

Golf is a sport of elegance and precision, but it’s also a sport of the heart. Together, we can make a difference!