Tee off to fight meningitis

The Brian Mayo Charity Golf Day will take place on the Championship Course on Thursday 6 September at Bryn Meadows in Ystrad Mynach, Caerphilly.  The course was built by Brian and his business partners, and was designed by professional golfer Craig Defoy in 1973.

Eight teams of four have already confirmed their entries for the event with many more anticipated.

Entry costs £160 per team of four, to include meals and refreshments, with all profits coming to us for our lifesaving and life-changing disease prevention, awareness and support work. To date the event has raised £22,000 for our ongoing work.

Rare fungal meningitis

The event was first hosted in 1989 after Mr Mayo lost both of his legs to meningitis. This was believed to be from contracting rare fungal meningitis after licking a weed killer-covered golf ball in 1980.

His wife Fay said, “He was in a coma for 11 days before he woke up. The only thing they could attribute it to was the weed killer on the greens.”

Current owner of the resort, Gary Mayo, said his father was inspired to pick up his golf clubs again after reading a book in hospital. “The thing that got him into amputee golf was Douglas Bader, the World War II pilot who lost both of his legs."

Inspiration and hero

“My dad read the book about him after he had his own legs amputated and also got the opportunity to meet him. He really inspired my dad, and was his hero.”

Tragically, Brian contracted meningitis again and died aged 62 in 1999.  

Gary Mayo added, “I thoroughly look forward to this event every year.

“I’m always delighted by the number of teams who take part, and the numerous others who have stepped forward to support the occasion. I’m very grateful to everyone for their contribution, and the overall success of the day."

Return the favour

“We are delighted to continue to support those affected by meningitis and Meningitis Now. They were there for my family when needed, and I’m glad that I can continue to return the favour with our annual golf day.”   

Meningitis Now community fundraiser for Wales, Carrie Bater, added, “What happened to Brian shows that people can contract meningitis more than once, often quickly and with only flu-like symptoms. 

“We wish the family the best with their latest fundraiser and hope as many people as possible take part."

For more details or to enter a team contact Bryn Meadows on 014595 225 590, email sales@brynmeadows.co.uk or visit the website www.brynmeadows.co.uk.