Just over 50 excited teenagers from across the Gold Coast participated in the GC SUNS first community event under the Horizon’s Program this morning at the 2nd annual Youth Homeless Golf Day at Royal Pines Resort.

Despite many of the teens having never picked up a set of golf clubs before, Royal Pine’s golfing professionals were determined to ensure all participants left the event having seen improvement in their game.

Aside from learning the basic skills on the “putting green”, “bunker” and “driving range”, the day also provided many of the city’s homeless youth a chance to meet and mix with business leaders and sporting professionals.

GC SUNS Youth Homeless Ambassador Tom Lynch and promising youngster Jackson Allen were more than happy to spend their only day off hanging out with the kids from the club’s nominated charities Gold Coast Youth Service, Project for Homeless Youth and YHES house.

However, the true highlight of the day was skipper Gary Ablett dropping in for a special surprise visit – also taking the time to hit the gold course to show off his impressive skills in the bunker.

Lynch was taken aback by the smiles and laughed shared this morning.

“As Youth Homeless Ambassador it’s great to come out here and get involved with the kids,” said Lynch.

“It’s exciting to be a part of this role and help the kids as best as we can… every time I come out to an event I learn a lot so hopefully I can learn and grow in the role.”

General Manager of Royal Pines – John Morris, told goldcoastfc.com.au the Resort was honoured to be hosting the charitable community event for a consecutive year.

“We’re very excited about it – clearly it’s a SUNS initiative but it’s something we want to work closely with for years to come, because the three foundations behind the community program share the same values and community beliefs as RACV and Royal Pines,” said Morris.

“For us working with the suns gives us both an opportunity to contribute to more collectively as we would singularly so tis something we definitely see being a long term association.”