Chris Riley usually draws attention for his drives down the fairway, but it’s a fund-raising drive that’s bringing him praise at University of Kansas Hospital.

Riley, a member of the U.S. Ryder Cup golf team, has donated $25,000 to the hospital’s annual Treads & Threads fund-raiser, which raises money for cancer treatment.

“We were absolutely overwhelmed,” said Janice Benjamin, vice president for development at the hospital. “I think this adds a little element of excitement.”

The Ryder Cup pits American golfers against European golfers.

Each member of the American team is given $200,000 through PGA of America to give to charities — $100,000 is to go to a college, usually the golfer’s alma mater, and the other $100,000 to other charities.

The connection between Riley and the hospital was the Bayer drug company. Bayer is a sponsor of Riley, and John Payne, president and general manager of Bayer’s North America Animal Health Division, was co-chairman of this year’s Treads & Threads event, which was Friday.

Bob Walker, director of communications for the Animal Health Division, said Riley approached Bayer for suggestions on how to use the money.

“When Chris came to talk to us about the Ryder Cup, he wanted to do something that was near and dear to Bayer’s heart,” Walker said. “We felt, and Chris felt, this was the appropriate thing.”

The third annual fund-raiser, held at the Kansas Speedway, raised more than $300,000, Benjamin said. Exact totals weren’t available because several bills had yet to be paid.

The gala raises money for the hospital’s patient resource center and technology improvements.

American players Tiger Woods, left, and Chris Riley share a laugh during practice for the 35th Ryder Cup matches at the Oakland Hills Country Club in Bloomfield Township, Mich. The matches begin Friday. Riley recently donated 5,000 of his Ryder Cup purse to the University of Kansas Hospital.