The St Ives Charity Pro Am has been a fundraising staple during the last ten years. The tournament has raised significant funds and spread awareness to Lighthouse’s cause over the years. This year the tournament brought in $190,000 for the Lighthouse Family Retreat and hit the $1 million mark cumulatively for the past 10 years. One hundred and 124 golfers and 15 sponsors participated in the event this year to create an incredible impact for Lighthouse Family Retreat.
One of many highlights of the day was Presenting Sponsor, AJ Bir of Mi-Tech Metals flying in from Indianapolis, Indiana to present Lighthouse Family Retreat with a $100,000 check.
Another highlight from the day was Peyton Ogle, a 9 year old golfer and cancer survivor that was served by Lighthouse Family Retreat four years ago on a Retreat. Peyton was positioned on a Par 3, where he was waiting to greet players and spectators. As the foursomes arrived, Peyton greeted them with a handshake, introduced himself as a cancer survivor and then challenged them to use his shot. What most golfers didn’t know is that Peyton is the number two golfer for his age in the state of Tennessee. Most of the groups ended up using Peyton’s shot! Peyton was the Lighthouse’s mission in action.
Karen Kurinka, Director of Development and Tournament organizer, was quoted saying, “The St Ives Charity Pro Am has made a significant impact on the mission of Lighthouse as it’s enabled us to send hundreds of families down to a retreat for a week away from hospitals, treatment and the stresses of the illness. Because of the generous support of our St Ives members, sponsors and players, we will be able to reach so many more families in the coming year living through childhood cancer.”
Founder of the tournament and PGA Professional, Billy Jack of St Ives, was thrilled with this year’s event and the generosity of all the people who have supported the event. “ It’s hard to believe that we have raised this much money, but then again when you see what the Lighthouse does with these families, it’s not that surprising! We look forward to hosting the event for the next 10 years.”