Members of the international yachting industry were the play-makers of a friendly Golf Tournament at the Royal Malta Golf Club, organised by Melita Marine Group, marina operator and superyacht service provider throughout the Mediterranean.
The 18-hole tournament, held on February 29 and March 1, was in aid of the Biological Conservation Research Foundation (BICREF), an NGO working for the sustainability of the Mediterranean sea's future.
This was the second annual Golf Tournament that Melita Marine organised following last year's memorable and successful event. During the tournament, 12 players competed against each other in a two-day golfing experience favoured by friendly weather, good food and an overall atmosphere of yachting camaraderie.
Two beautiful Volvo cars were displayed on the golf course. All was rounded off in fun and style with a gala dinner and presentation of awards at the Hilton Malta, attended by over 130 guests.
"It is a fact that, as a yachting industry, we pollute, and as yacht service providers, brokers and marina operators, we are aware of the negative impact this can have on marine life," said Annelise Poulton, business development executive, Melita Marine Group.
She added: "Our long-term commitment and that of our sponsors is aimed towards more sustainability for our seas and is our way of giving something back, as we benefit from the wonderful opportunities this industry has to offer."
Adriana Vella, conservation biologist and founder of the Biological Conservation Research Foundation (BICREF), thanked the group for its valuable contribution towards the Mediterranean sea and its future.
"We are all increasingly confronted with news of changing climate, deteriorating natural environments, impoverished biodiversity and expanding deserts," she said.
"Research and knowledge have brought so many marked improvements in our lives therefore mankind has the power to react and take up challenges successfully."
Awards for the golf tournament were presented during the gala dinner by Competitiveness and Communication Minister Censu Galea, Pierre Balzan, Melita Marine Group chairman, Gianfranco Selvaggi, Gasan Enterprises general manager, and Ian Restall, member of the Royal Malta Golf Club.
The first prize, a Paul Picot watch valued at €3,000, went to Australian superyacht Captain Wayne Williams, as last year, with a total score of 136. The longest drive was also won by Captain Williams on the 13th. Closest to the Pin went to chef Greg Beilenberg (M/Y Osprey) on the 5th and Steve Pallister on the 15th.
The first runner-up was Steve Pallister (general manager, Libya Oilfields Supply) with a score of 143, who was presented with a silver Christofle trophy by Cleland & Souchet and third place was won by Captain Graeme Riddle (S/Y Wellenreiter) with a score of 146. Captain Philip Sefton (M/Y Osprey) won a prize for sporting spirit.