A group of Cromwell and Wakatipu chicks called The Birdies are participating in the Longest Day Challenge on Thursday at Millbrook Resort and the Arrowtown Golf Club.

Sounds like a fun girls day out, but the reason behind the event is actually for quite a serious cause.

The eight friends have all been affected in one way or another by cancer, and are raising money for the Cancer Society by doing what they love.

Seventy-two holes in one day was four times the usual amount of golf a person would play, and the girls will starting at 6:30am and finishing when they finish - 36 holes at Millbrook followed by 19 holes at Arrowtown.

“We expect to be finishing up about 8pm in the evening and will continue regardless of whatever the weather gods choose to throw at us on the day,” participant, Jackie Hamilton said.

The Birdies were very grateful for the two clubs' donations of accessible tee-times, carts and green fees. Without the two clubs' involvement, they wouldn't have been able to achieve this. 

Their goal is to raise $8000 and so far they have managed almost $2500.

This was the third year in a row The Birdies have gathered together, with some slightly different members each year for the Longest Day Challenge.

"We are also grateful for our support crew who will be cheering us on from dawn to dusk, bringing food and drinks out onto the course so that we can concentrate on the challenge at hand. The team have decided to dress in Hawaiian theme this year to represent the many bright and variable attributes and attitudes that support crew can bring to the cancer patient.”

Team member Jo Neep said living with cancer was both a mental and a physical challenge.

“Multiple myeloma is treatable, but not curable which means it never goes away. It festers inside growing slowly until it breaks through the drug barrier, only to be battered back by stronger more toxic chemo. 

“Currently there are only a handful of treatments available. Meanwhile the body see-saws between being ravaged, to looking and feeling okay. The Cancer Society understand this fight and are a good sounding board providing counselling and practical help when required.  

“I am both touched and proud that my golfing buddies are continuing the effort to raise funds for the Cancer Society.  Last year I was too sick to join them. I am honoured that they want to take up this challenge again. I hope that others can find it in their hearts to support this good cause."

Visit the team's The Longest Day page to provide support.