Gala ball to be held in memory of Kevin King

The family and friends of a young Derry man who died suddenly from a heart condition are to hold a golf tournament and gala ball in his memory.
Kevin KingKevin King
Kevin King

Kevin King (22) collapsed suddenly during a game of indoor soccer with friends in November, last year.

It is thought the young GAA player died from an unknown inherited heart condition.

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On Saturday, May 6, on what would be Kevin’s 23rd birthday, his family and the local community have organised a major fundraising day for British Heart Foundation Northern Ireland (BHF NI) in his memory.

During the day, the family are holding a charity four ball golf tournament titled the he KK Golf Classic at Foyle Golf Club in Derry.

This will be followed by the King of Hearts Gala Ball, a black tie event with a charity auction, in the Everglades Hotel.

The King family hope the day will raise thousands of pounds for the heart research charity in his memory.

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Kevin’s brother Martin King commented: “We have been overwhelmed by the amazing support we have had from the Derry community since Kevin’s death. We have raised over £12,500 already and there has been fundraising going on in his memory all over the county.

“Kevin’s death has left a massive hole in all our lives and we want to do what we can in his memory. Kevin lived life to the full and always made time for anyone. He would want us to keep doing good and raising money to fund BHF research that will save the lives of other young people.

“Local people and businesses have already been incredibly generous and we are so grateful for everything they have done for us already.”

Head of BHF NI Jayne Murray said: “Every month in Northern Ireland a young person dies from a heart condition they didn’t know they had. This shouldn’t happen to young and vibrant men like Kevin who were fit and healthy. We need to fund more heart research to prevent this happening.

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“Since Kevin’s death we have been truly touched and humbled by the bravery and generosity of spirit his family have shown.

“They have raised a huge amount of money for us in a short space of time and their planning and dedication to the golf day and gala ball are testament to the love they have for their son and brother.

“They are a true inspiration to all of us at BHF NI and we privileged to be able to support their fundraising efforts.”

Local people can support the fundraisers in a number of ways including tee sponsorship, golf prizes for team achievement, longest drive and nearest the pin. T

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There is also main sponsorship of the drinks reception at the Everglades Hotel Derry for the gala ball and items for the charity auction.

For tickets for the gala ball email [email protected] and for spaces for the golf day contact Steven on 078 6095 3521 or email [email protected]

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