An exceptional day at Golf de Servanes for the children of La Timone

Under a pure, brilliant sky, in the majestic setting of the Alpilles nature park, the Golf de Servanes was the scene of a day out of time, when the elegance of the place was put to good use for a deeply human cause: offering a moment of escape and happiness to the children in the oncology department of the Hôpital de la Timone in Marseille.

Behind this initiative, hearts beating in unison. Starting with André Trapy, a fervent advocate of solidarity and a pillar of the Marignane Lions Club, whose generosity and determination are matched only by his discretion, with the loyal support of Jean Badéa, Director of Golf de Servanes. Thanks to their joint commitment and the mobilisation of a community of dedicated volunteers, this day was able to come to fruition, woven together by sincere gestures and delicate attentions, to sow sparks of joy in the eyes of these young guests.

The calm of the place is broken by the joyful bursts of voices: the children arrive, surrounded by their families and the volunteer staff. They discover the immensity of the estate, a haven of peace nestled between olive trees and rocks. The clubs are quickly taken in hand. Under the supervision of Leo, a teacher with an inspiring swing, and a cohort of caring volunteers, an introduction to golf begins on the driving range. Concentration, laughter, encouragement: every move becomes a small step towards escape.

Thanks to Aix Heli Pro, the children were treated to a helicopter flight. The whir of the blades came before the thrill of takeoff. And suddenly, the earth drifted away. The golf course turned into an emerald miniature, the mountains into a stone-carved poem. On board, eyes were wide and silent, frozen in wonder. A suspended moment—beyond illness, beyond hospital walls, beyond all boundaries.

On the sun-drenched terrace of La Bergerie des Alpilles, Jean-Michel Alazard and his team served a simple yet heartfelt lunch: homemade burgers, crispy fries, and a delightful dessert that lit up every taste bud. The meal became a moment of connection, of sharing, of comfort too. Like a breath of fresh air in the midst of a battle each child faces with quiet dignity.

Parked there, elegant and sleek, a Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS awaits. Each child climbs aboard, eyes sparkling, for a ride they will remember their whole life. The wind in their hair, the speed, the luxury—the thrill of a moment where anything feels possible. A pause where beauty takes over.

Aboard the golf carts, Mr. Trapy, accompanied by Samantha Bloch, leads the children on an exploration of the course. Here, a pond where frogs croak; there, a clearing in the trees revealing the Alpilles. It’s no longer a simple visit, but a journey.

A statement of support, humanity, and beauty offered to those who need it most. Thanks to the dedication of its teams, partners, and its director Jean Badéa, Golf de Servanes shows that sport can be much more than a pastime: it can be a meaningful force, a bridge toward the light.

And on this May 21st, the sun’s rays were not the only things shining on the greens. The children’s smiles also illuminated the place.