On Tuesday evening, August 23 at Rosie O’Grady’s in New York, the 2010 U.S. Open golf champion Graeme McDowell officially launched his new G-Mac Foundation.

The G-Mac Foundation’s mission is to support children’s medical research in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and the U.S. Working in conjunction with the leaders in children’s medical research and the main children’s hospitals in Dublin and Belfast, the foundation will raise funds for much needed research in the area of children’s medicine. 

In addition the foundation will endeavor to bring a group of children from both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland to Florida for the holiday of a lifetime.  McDowell has been a long-term supporter of Multiple Sclerosis charities, a cause that has been and always will remain a priority in his charitable work.

“Charity is something I’ve always wanted to be involved in,” said McDowell, “and I’ve often had the chance to represent my chosen charities in some of the fun events we play during the year such as the Tavistock Cup in Florida for example.

I’m delighted to now have my own G-Mac Foundation to channel any funds I raise from events like this, and from other events such as the launch in Manhattan, to support my charities of choice.

“There are so many good, deserving causes out there, but I think you have to focus on a few to make a meaningful difference.  For many years I have supported Multiple Sclerosis charities.  My mum has this neurological condition, so it’s a cause that’s understandably very close to my heart and I will continue to support it.

“Children’s medical research is also something that the foundation will heavily support.  The Children’s Medical and Research Foundation (CMRF) works tirelessly towards providing the best care available for sick children.  On a recent visit to a children’s hospital in Dublin I saw firsthand what the CMRF do, and most importantly why they are needed.  It was a real eye-opener and has made me even more passionate about the cause.  We also hope to take some of these sick and recovering children on trips, such as to Orlando, giving them the experience of a lifetime to help lift their spirits.

“The G-Mac Foundation is going to be my way of giving something back. I’ve got some short-term goals and some longer-term ones, but we’re in the early stages just now and I’m excited about it. 

“Going forward I will have more evenings similar to this, and possibly some golf days and the likes.  People are now able to make donations via the charity section on my website (www.GraemeMcDowell.com) and generally I am going to work hard to continue channeling money into the foundation.”