Gregg Stevenson, a former Green Beret and Army commando from Foulridge, has made a remarkable comeback after being injured in combat. Stevenson, who won gold at the Paris games in the PR2 mixed double sculls with Lauren Rowles, has become an ambassador for the On Course Foundation, a charity that aims to support the recovery of injured soldiers or veterans through the game of golf.
Stevenson’s journey to recovery began in 2009, when he was injured in Helmand Province while on patrol. He stood on an improvised explosive device, which resulted in severe injuries that left him unable to walk. However, Stevenson refused to give up. With the help of medical professionals and his own determination, he learned to walk again on prosthetic legs.
After his recovery, Stevenson became involved with the On Course Foundation, a charity that uses golf as a tool for rehabilitation and recovery. The charity was founded in 2009 by David Rasche, a businessman and golf enthusiast who grew up in the area. Rasche’s vision was to create a platform where injured soldiers and veterans could come together, share their experiences, and find support and camaraderie through the game of golf.
Since its inception, the On Course Foundation has raised over £300,000 for its charity golf days, which bring together service personnel and veterans with representatives from businesses across the country. This year’s event, held at Skipton Golf Club, was no exception. The event saw 15 service personnel and veterans, including Stevenson, compete in a charity golf day, with teams comprising representatives from businesses close to Rasche.
The event was a huge success, with over £20,000 expected to be raised for the charity. The post-tournament charity auction alone raised £10,000, a testament to the generosity of the attendees and the importance of the cause. The auction featured a range of exclusive items, including golfing memorabilia, luxury holidays, and high-end sporting equipment.
Stevenson was joined by other notable veterans, including Andy Stevens, who will captain the British team in the Simpson Cup, a Ryder Cup-style event for injured servicepeople and veterans. The event, which will be held at the prestigious Shinnecock Hills in New York, is a major highlight of the charity’s calendar.
Also in attendance was David Llewellyn, a successful tour player and coach who has worked with many of the 900 participants who have helped the charity over the past 14 years. Llewellyn, who has just been announced as the Captain of the PGA for 2026, was on hand to support the veterans and players, and to share his expertise and knowledge with the group.
The On Course Foundation’s charity golf days are just one aspect of its work. The charity also provides support and resources to injured soldiers and veterans, helping them to reintegrate into civilian life and find new purpose and meaning. Through its golf programs, the charity aims to provide a sense of community and belonging, as well as a platform for veterans to share their stories and experiences.
Stevenson’s story is a testament to the power of the On Course Foundation’s work. Despite his injuries, Stevenson has gone on to achieve great things, including winning gold at the Paris games. His determination and resilience are an inspiration to others, and a reminder of the importance of supporting our injured soldiers and veterans.
The On Course Foundation’s charity golf days are a unique and innovative way to raise funds and awareness for the charity. The events bring together service personnel and veterans with representatives from businesses across the country, providing a platform for networking and fundraising. The charity’s golf programs are designed to be fun and accessible, with events held at a range of golf courses across the country.
The On Course Foundation’s work is not limited to its charity golf days. The charity also provides support and resources to injured soldiers and veterans, helping them to reintegrate into civilian life and find new purpose and meaning. The charity’s programs are designed to be flexible and adaptable, with a range of activities and services available to meet the needs of each individual.
The On Course Foundation’s work is made possible through the generosity of its supporters and donors. The charity relies on donations and fundraising efforts to continue its work, and is grateful for the support it receives from individuals and businesses across the country.
In conclusion, the On Course Foundation is a charity that is making a real difference in the lives of injured soldiers and veterans. Through its charity golf days and other initiatives, the charity is providing a vital lifeline for those who have served their country, and helping them to find a new sense of purpose and fulfillment. The charity’s work is a testament to the power of golf as a tool for rehabilitation and recovery, and a reminder of the importance of supporting our injured soldiers and veterans.