Chinnor RFC Winger to take hole-in-one challenge for mum’s hospice

CHINNOR RFC winger, Josh Hodson, is setting himself a new sporting challenge by attempting a hole-in-one on Saturday, July 4, In aid of Michael Sobell Hospice, a cause close to his heart.

The odds of an amateur golfer hitting a hole-in-one are estimated to be 12,500 to 1, hence Josh setting a massive fundraising target of £12,500 (of which £705 has so far been raised) for his challenge which will take place at Rickmansworth Golf Club, which has kindly prepared and allocated a special par 3 hole for the day’s event. 

For every shot Josh takes he requires a donation of a £1 and each pound raised will go directly to Michael Sobell Hospice where his mum (Sian Hodson), who is terminally ill with cancer, is being treated and cared for. This money will make a huge difference to the Mount Vernon-based Hospice which is in need of financial help as a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic.

“During these tough times with COVID-19, Michael Sobell Hospice Charity has lost up to 80% of its funding and is in desperate need of public donations,” explained Josh. “For everything the Hospice team has done to help my mum and others get through their own personal battles, I feel it is the least I can do to try to help keep their doors open.”

Commenting on his challenge, mum Sian said: “My terminal cancer diagnosis just over four years ago had a massive impact on the family and both my sons immediately started individual fundraising attempts, with each of them managing to raise several thousand pounds for cancer charities. Michael Sobell plays a very important part in our lives. I have been an inpatient several times and as a result, it was suggested that I should attend their Day Centre which has helped me beyond belief.”

Sian added: “When Josh realised that the Hospice was suffering a deficit in their fundraising income this year, due to COVID-19, he knew he had to do something to raise as much money as quickly as possible, whilst hopefully attracting as much attention as possible from local businesses and residents who might be in a position to donate some money to enable him to try and hit a hole in one.”

To donate to Josh’s challenge and help raise funds for Michael Sobell Hospice, please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/hole-in-one-for-michael-sobel