Camp leaders hope that golf tournaments will raise money for ministry
By Annette Bender
This spring, each of Holston’s four camps are sponsoring fund-raiser golf tournaments. Why do camp leaders find golf tournaments to be ideal moneymakers for their ministries?
“That’s a good question. Maybe it’s because it’s easier to go out and solicit businesses for donations through golf tournaments,” says Walter Wright, chair of Camp Lookout’s tournament. For the first time this year, the Chattanooga-area camp is gathering on the greens to raise $40,000 for its 2004 budget.
While Camp Lookout and Camp Wesley Woods are venturing into golf land for the first time, both Camp Dickenson (five years) and Buffalo Mountain Camp (10 years) are golf-tournament veterans. In 2003, Buffalo Mountain’s tournament raised $27,000 to benefit the Jonesborough, Tenn., camp.
“The tournament costs about $5,000 to $6,000 to put on, so we clear about $20,000,” says the Rev. Christina DowlingSoka, camp director. The proceeds are used for scholarships and staff.
One-third of the profits come from golfers’ fees, DowlingSoka said. “Golfers seem to really enjoy a day of golfing with a mission in mind.”
The rest of the profits come from major sponsors, which for Buffalo Mountain ranges from Wal-Mart to individuals. “For some reason businesses really like sponsoring golf tournaments. I don’t why that is.”
Here are the dates and contact information for this year’s camp-sponsored golf tournaments in Holston.
• Dickenson: April 23-24
The “Two-Man Best-Ball Championship” happens Friday, April 23, at Draper Valley Golf Club in Draper, Va. The entry free is $140 at $70 per player. The entry fee is discounted at $100 for golfers who enter the April 24 tournament (below).
The “Four-Person Captain’s Choice” tournament happens Saturday, April 24, also at Draper Valley Golf Club. Entry fee is $280 at $70 per player.
Registration deadline for both contests is April 20. Team numbers are limited. For information, email the camp or call (276) 744-7241
• Buffalo Mountain: April 24
“Scramble for the Kids” happens Saturday, April 24, at Tri-Cities Golf Club in Blountville, Tenn. The $65 entry fee for golfers ($55 for students) includes breakfast, lunch, cart and green fees with all amenities. Entry deadline is April 1. Both golfers and sponsors are needed. For information, e-mail Christina DowlingSoka or call (423) 753-6678.
• Wesley Woods: April 26
The “1st Annual Golf Tournament” happens Monday, April 26, at Gettysvue Polo, Golf & Country Club in Knoxville, Tenn. The $100-per-player entry fee includes dinner, prizes, a round of golf with a cart, and range balls. Entry deadline is April 19. For more information, e-mail the camp or call (865) 448-2246.
• Lookout: May 24
The “First Annual Golf Tournament” happens Monday, May 24, at Chattanooga Golf and Country Club in Chattanooga, Tenn. Entry fee is $800 per four-person team or $200 per player. Both golfers and sponsors are needed. For more information, e-mail Walter Wright or call (423) 887-5257 or (423) 506-0248.
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