The Gumbo Cup, 2024
Richard Clarke is raising money for Andover Mind
In memory of Joff Hutchinson
Story
What is the ‘Gumbo Cup’?
Unfortunately, as sometimes happens in life, these events are born out of tragedy and sadness. The simplest way to explain, is to let Chris; founder of The Gumbo Cup, tell his story…
Sadly, in July 2016 my brother, Joff Hutchinson, took his own life, this was a huge shock to his family and friends as he was such an outgoing, confident guy, with a huge character. We felt we had to do something not only to celebrate the memory of Joff but help make people aware of mental health issues and help raise some money for charity.
Joff called everyone “Gumbo” and after a few beers at a tattoo convention with some friends Joff had the words “LOVE YOU GUMBO” tattooed on his chest.
So, in September 2016, and in memory of Joff we created the Gumbo Cup. The idea is simple, friends and family members gather together at a local golf venue, play a round of golf, meet at the 19th hole (that’s the Club House for the none Golfers…) for a beer and then on to a venue in town for some food, a few drinks, a raffle, disco and a chance to exchange stories about the day and how many balls Joff would have lost.
Many still suffer in silence and Chris, Jamie, his family, and friends wanted to make sure that Joff’s passing would provide an opportunity to raise money for charities and organisations that provide much needed support, care, and attention to those suffering from mental health issues.
Andover Mind is a local charity for people who experience, or are affected by, mental health distress. We provide a range of services designed to enable people to achieve their individual potential and to participate in society. We also engage with the local community to promote mental well-being and to challenge stigma and discrimination.