It may have been the first LBF Golf Marrowthon® on the South Island, but with delighted players already signing up for 2008, it certainly won't be the last.

Big names from the world of sport were keen to offer their support on Tuesday 9 October, 2007 including legendary golfer Sir Bob Charles. The 1963 British Open champion took time out from his busy schedule to advise golfers on the 1st tee.

Also playing were former All Blacks Robbie Deans (who received a $10,000 pledge from an anonymous supporter) and Steve Surridge, and cricketers Nathan Astle and Chris Harris. They tested their endurance alongside a number of former patients, as well as friends and families whose lives have been touched by these diseases.

Despite their tired legs and achy arms, the 36 competitors were still smiling broadly after completing an incredible 100 holes each at Christchurch's Clearwater Golf Club. And the smiles were broader still when they learned they'd raised a fantastic $100,000 for the Leukaemia & Blood Foundation.