Duke Golf's Birdies for Babies: A Winning Season On and Off the Course
As the regular season winds down, Duke University's golf programs have hit an impressive milestone, raising over $10,000 for the Birdies for Babies initiative this year. This program, which benefits the Duke Children's Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Units, has been making a significant impact since its inception nearly nine years ago by Virginia Elena Carta.
This season, the men's and women's teams have collectively raised $10,582.25, pushing their total contributions to a remarkable $142,453.62. It's a testament to the dedication of the athletes and the community's support for a cause that hits close to home for many.
For those looking to get involved, you can pledge an amount for each birdie made during the season or opt for a one-time donation. Pledges can start as low as $0.50, with the option to increase.
The scoring system is straightforward: an eagle counts as two birdies, an albatross as three, and a hole-in-one as four. Every swing counts towards making a difference.
Looking ahead, the women’s team is set to wrap up their regular season at the Charles Schwab Women's Collegiate Invitational in Fort Worth, Texas, from March 23-24. Meanwhile, the men’s team is gearing up for the Valspar Intercollegiate Invitational in Palm City, Florida, during the same dates, with three more tournaments to follow.
The Birdies for Babies program was the brainchild of Virginia Elena Carta, a standout athlete from Udine, Italy. Carta’s accolades include a four-time All-ACC selection and the 2016 NCAA Individual Champion title. Her remarkable 16-under-par performance as a rookie set an NCAA record and laid the foundation for her legacy at Duke.
Duke Children's, a key beneficiary of this program, is a major healthcare provider in the Southeast, offering extensive services through its 180-bed inpatient hospital and numerous clinics across North Carolina. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report in all 10 specialties, Duke Children's continues to be a beacon of hope and care for families throughout the region.
For more information on how you can support this initiative, visit Duke Children's online or follow their updates on social media. Your support helps drive both the success of Duke's golf programs and the vital work being done for children in need.