Peter Lowndes Open Challenge 2024
Charity & the District grand lodge of Cyprus
The District Grand Lodge of Cyprus Freemasons, held their annual Charity Golf day on Sunday, May 12th, 2024, at the prestigious Aphrodite Hills Golf Club in Paphos, Competing for the Peter Lowndes Open Challenge Cup it drew a record number of participants. The competition, a mixed individual format, saw golfers not only from across Cyprus but also from overseas, among the players was a distinguished guest, the Past Pro Grand Master of UGLE, Peter Lowndes, whom the cup is named after, who flew in for this special occasion.
The Peter Lowndes Annual Open Golf Tournament has become an established tradition, teeing off, not just for a good game, but to support a worthy cause. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the tournament, which began in 2015 with the unwavering support from all the Lodges under the District Grand Lodge of Cyprus. With its focus on charitable giving, the tournament has grown steadily over the years, attracting an increasing number of golfers and sponsors
This year’s recipient charity is the Karaiskakio Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a “world without leukaemia” through their volunteer Bone Marrow Donor Registry.
The relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere of the tournament belied the significant impact it made. A remarkable almost €16,000 was raised on the day.
Following a day of friendly competition on the fairways, the golfers, Freemasons, families, and friends gathered at the clubhouse for a delicious buffet lunch. It was a time for camaraderie and celebrating the success of the event. The highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of prizes to the tournament winners by The Past Pro Grand Master of The United Grand Lodge of England, Peter Lowndes. The winner of the Peter Lowndes Cup was Mr Andy Antoni. A fine day was enjoyed by all.
The Past Pro Grand Master, Peter Lowndes, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to everyone involved for their generosity and unwavering support. He commended the organizers for their dedication to this worthy cause and highlighted the extensive charity work undertaken by the District Grand Lodge of Cyprus. His closing remarks were a powerful call to action, urging everyone to continue supporting this fight against leukaemia.
The Karaiskakio Foundation: A Beacon of Hope in the Fight Against Leukemia
The District Grand Lodge of Cyprus has pledged a total of €62,000 towards this cause, specifically for the purchase of an Automated Cell Separating Medical Instrument. This vital equipment will significantly enhance the work of the Paediatric, Immunology and Tissue, and Cell and Organ Transplantation laboratories within the Karaiskakio Foundation. With this advanced technology, the Foundation will be better equipped to perform life-saving bone marrow transplants and other critical procedures. Every cent raised at the tournament goes directly towards this critical goal.
Established in Cyprus, the Karaiskakio Foundation stands as a beacon of hope for countless individuals and families battling leukaemia and other blood disorders. This vital organization functions as a volunteer Bone Marrow Donor Registry, a critical resource in the fight against these life-threatening diseases.
The Foundation’s mission goes beyond simply maintaining a registry. They are committed to ongoing research and development, aiming to improve treatment options and ultimately reduce mortality rates. Their vision extends to enhancing the quality of life for patients after treatment, ensuring a future filled with hope and possibility.
The Masonic District of Cyprus: Stewards of Charity
The Peter Lowndes Annual Open Golf Tournament is a shining example of the extensive charitable work undertaken by the District Grand Lodge of Cyprus. It is established under the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) which is the world’s premier Grand Lodge and represents a network of Freemasons on the Republic of Cyprus. Freemasonry, the Craft, is a unique set of learnings veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. It stands from time immemorial and in a society so widely extended as Freemasonry, the branches of which are spread over the four quarters of the globe, their commitment to philanthropy is undeniable.
Building a Better Cyprus Through Charity
For the Masonic District of Cyprus, charitable work is a cornerstone of their mission. They believe in giving back to the communities they serve, focusing on causes that improve the lives of Cypriots. The Peter Lowndes Tournament exemplifies this philosophy. By raising funds this year for the Karaiskakio Foundation, Freemasons are directly contributing to the fight against a devastating disease, offering hope and a chance for a better future to those battling leukaemia.
The District Grand Lodge of Cyprus’s charitable endeavours extend far beyond this single event. They support a wide range of causes throughout the years, from educational scholarships to aid for disaster relief. Their dedication to improving the well-being of their fellow citizens is truly commendable.
The Peter Lowndes Annual Open Golf Tournament serves as a testament to the power of Freemasonry, sportsmanship and philanthropy. It’s a day where Brother Masons and golfers come together, not just to compete, but to make a real difference in the lives of others. As the tournament approaches its decade, it’s clear that this tradition will continue to grow, inspiring more golfers and members in raising even more vital funds for the charitable mission.
