It’s a milestone year for a much-anticipated fundraising golf tournament.
This year, Ralph Eichler will present the 20th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, with proceeds going to the Interlake Community Foundation and South West District Palliative Care.
In the last dozen years, the tournament has netted nearly $106,000, which was split evenly between the two organizations. And in the years prior, it brought in even more funds for these important causes.
For Eichler, the event started off in 2004 as a political fundraiser when he was MLA for Lakeside. The following year, he decided to turn it into a fundraiser for two causes that are close to his heart — the Interlake Community Foundation and South West District Palliative Care.
“I wanted to give back to the communities. I was involved with the Interlake Community Foundation from the get-go. And as a family, we’ve utilized palliative care so we saw how important it is,” he said.
“Community members can feel good about participating and having fun while supporting these organizations. It helps to cover some of the administrative costs, which is critically important.”
At the same time, the annual golf tournament serves as a way to bring the community together for a little fun in the sun.
“We’ve always had the event in Teulon. The municipalities are all invited, and they almost always come and join the dinner. A lot of them have teams that participate,” Eichler said.
“It’s something that everyone enjoys. Everyone’s in it to give back to our community. We’re already into another generation, which is great. It’s phenomenal.”
This year’s event is set for Friday, June 13 at the Teulon Golf and Country Club, just north of Teulon on Highway 7. The day will begin with registration at 10 a.m. followed by a shotgun tee-off at 11 a.m. for the Texas Scramble event.
Participants can set their sights on a hole-in-one contest for a $10,000 prize. Other highlights include a deluxe boxed lunch to enjoy on the course as well as a post-golf reception.
Adding to the excitement, the event organizers have teamed up with Good Neighbour Brewing to create a specially labelled beer for the 20th anniversary. In addition, all registered golfers will receive 20th anniversary golf towels.
Corporate sponsorship opportunities are available, with company names included in promotional materials and social media. Gold-level sponsorships are available for $300 plus two prizes of $100 each. Regular hole sign sponsorships are available for $125 per sign. Prize donations are also needed.
The cost to participate in the tournament is $140, which includes golf with a shared cart, as well as a boxed lunch and post-golf reception in the clubhouse.
The deadline to register is June 1. Registration is available online at www.interlakefoundation.ca with payment by credit card or e-transfer. Alternatively, participants can fill out a paper form and mail it to the Interlake Community Foundation.
For more information, contact co-ordinator Mary Beck at golf@interlakefoundation.ca or 204-792-1962.
