Toro has assisted the GCSAA Foundation in raising nearly $5 million for turfgrass research
Lawrence, Kan. – The GCSAA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), has received another $50,000 grant from The Toro Company Foundation for continued support of the Rounds 4 Research (R4R) program in 2026. With this contribution, The Toro Company has donated $700,000 to the program over the past 14 years.
Rounds 4 Research is designed to address a critical shortage in turfgrass research funding by auctioning donated rounds of golf online. The program allows GCSAA chapters and turfgrass foundations to participate as fundraising partners and direct the proceeds from auctioned rounds to specific projects that will have the most significant impact in their local areas.
Since its launch in 2012, Rounds 4 Research has raised nearly $5 million. The program is administered by the GCSAA Foundation and presented in partnership with The Toro Company. The 2026 R4R auction will be held April 20-26.
“The Rounds 4 Research auction broke records yet again in 2025, and Toro’s steadfast generosity has played a key role in the program’s continued success,” said GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans. “Toro’s unwavering support has undoubtedly ensured that the R4R program remains successful in sustaining the game of golf and advancing research that enhances the industry.”
The Toro Company is a longtime partner of the GCSAA Foundation, donating nearly $2.8 million since 1987 to help support scientific research, education and scholarships for future turfgrass professionals. As the exclusive presenting partner of Rounds 4 Research, The Toro Company is a Victory Club member of the GCSAA Foundation’s cumulative giving program and a GCSAA Platinum Partner.
“The Toro Company Foundation is proud to support Rounds for Research because it directly advances the science and education needed to steward our natural resources responsibly,” said Marnie K. Wells, President, The Toro Company Foundation. “This initiative reflects our commitment to sustainability by supporting research and scholarships that equip future turfgrass professionals to manage land, water, and inputs thoughtfully while strengthening the long-term health of the golf industry.”
About GCSAA
The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to 20,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and improve communities through the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org or visit our industry-leading magazine at GCMonline.com.
The GCSAA Foundation is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to secure funding and support to strengthen advocacy, education, and research that advances the work of golf course management professionals. Visit the Foundation at www.gcsaa.org/foundation.
Contact:
Angela Hartmann
Director, Communications
Phone: 800-472-7878, ext. 3647 or 785-393-1361 (cell)
ahartmann@gcsaa.org
Mike Strauss
Manager, Media Relations
Phone: 800-472-7878, ext. 5164
mstrauss@gcsaa.org
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