Fun memorial for wonderful Craig

FUN: The Craig Cooper Memorial Golf Tournament promises to be full of fun -- similar to last year's Property Brokers golfing fundraiser.

Property Brokers' upcoming sports contest will be a chance to "have a giggle", raise money for a good cause and remember "a wonderful man".

All Wairarapa branches of the real estate firm will shut up shop this Friday, with staff either playing ball or playing host at the Craig Cooper Memorial Golf Tournament, held at the Martinborough Golf Course. The tournament is named for Property Brokers Masterton estate agent, MC and passionate volunteer Craig Cooper, who died after a long battle with cancer last year.

Guy Mordaunt, regional manager for Property Brokers Wairarapa, said the event followed on from the golfing fundraiser it held last year for Relay For Life, for which the company is chief sponsor.

As Craig was heavily involved with the Cancer Society as a volunteer, and as an organiser of and participant in Relay For Life, Mr Mordaunt said it was only fitting Property Brokers continue the fundraiser, naming it in Craig's honour.

"Craig was a wonderful part of the Property Brokers family," Mr Mordaunt said.

"The tournament will be a fundraiser, but also a chance for us to get together and raise a glass to a great man."

Mr Mordaunt said last year's tournament was "hugely successful", raising more than $9000. Close to 30 teams entered, dressing up in everything from gorilla suits and Elvis Presley-inspired garb, to Little Bo Peep's dress and bonnet.

With many of the same players coming back this year, there promises to be no less hilarity, Mr Mordaunt said.

"It's a real giggle -- more about fun than golf."

Various businesses have come on board to sponsor each hole, including Pain & Kershaw, Fresh Choice Greytown, More FM Wairarapa and Enumerate Chartered Accountants, with Tranzit providing buses to and from the event.

There will be several food stations, including a barbecue with sausages donated by Greytown Butchery, a paua stand and a drinks trolley, manned by Property Brokers staff.

Also hosting will be Craig's wife, Alix Cooper.

Alix said Craig would often attend charity golf tournaments, even though he could "no more swing a golf club than captain the All Blacks".

"No-one could ever say no to him when he was championing cause," she said.

"We are all looking forward to a day full of fun and laughter, as nothing epitomised Craig more than that."

The tournament will be an annual event, with all proceeds going to the Cancer Society Wairarapa.