Montevideo, Dec 27 (IANS/EFE): Uruguayan football star Diego Forlan has traded cleats for golf clubs to take part in a tournament at Punta del Este in Uruguay to raise money for people hurt in accidents.

This is the fifth edition of the "Play for a Cause" event organised by Diego's sister, Alejandra Forlan, who chairs a foundation established by the former Manchester United striker in 2009.

Alejandra Forlan was 17 when a road accident left her a quadriplegic.

"It's been a beautiful day," Alejandra said as the golfers teed off in the coastal resort. "We are all together as a family and in peace."

Professional golfers Juan Ignacio Lizarralde and Marcos Ruiz, among others, are participating in this year's tournament.

Diego Forlan, 35, has been an outstanding performer for clubs in Argentina, England and Spain. A two-time recipient of the Golden Boot as the top scorer in Europe, he was voted as the best player in the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

With 36 goals, Forlan is the second highest scorer for Uruguay in international competitions.