Honda Classic boosts charities, helps children in need

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. - The crowds at the 2012 Honda Classic are expected to give a big boost not only to surrounding hotels, restaurants and shops but charities as well.

"When you have the support of a tournament like the Honda, it's just a huge help," said Barbara Nicklaus of the Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation.

The wife of legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus heads the charity group which receives contributions from the tournament.

Nicklaus said more children get the care they need thanks to the donations from tournaments like the Honda Classic.

Her charity, like the near 40 others the Honda Classic benefits, would not be able to touch as many lives, especially in difficult economic times.

"Well it's been tough times since 2008 for the charities. A lot of them are no longer here unfortunately. They try and stretch their dollar as far as they can to have as much impact," said Paul Bremer, President of the Honda Classic.

Bremer said what started from nothing has flourished to contribution levels above $1 million dollars for the past two years.

Directors said they expect the increased interest of the event this year to help propel contributions above what they have seen in the past.