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The fifth-annual Greater Brandon Community Foundation Charity Golf Classic was a huge success with three tournaments and two events held in late February. During the three days of tournaments, held at the River Hills Country Club, golfers were treated to 18 holes of golf at the Tournament of Champions (TOC), Celebrity Pro-Am Golf Tournament and the First Tee Brandon Invitational Golf Tournament.
"The Charity Golf Classic 2008 is clearly the best Classic we've ever had," said Foundation President Anne Nymark who indicated tournament officials are in the process of tallying up the results and the proceeds will be presented at the annual check presentation at a later date.
"We can't wait to give to charities registered with our organization, through our grant process," said Nymark. "Last year, the Greater Brandon Foundation Charity Golf Classic raised more than $330,000 and I am confident that we have raised significant dollars once again this year. Thanks to our great sponsors, industrious vendors, tireless volunteers and diligent Board of Directors who worked so hard to organize this year's awesome event."
The Charity Golf Classic began with the TOC, hosted by Florida Marlins Bench Coach Carlos Tosca and benefits the Brandon Foundation C.J. Tosca Fund, a fund to assist families of children with cancer, established in memory of Tosca's son who lost his battle with cancer at the age of two.
"We are thrilled to be part of Brandon Foundation because they do so much for the community, said Gerry Tosca, Carlos' wife. "This eases the pain for families that are stricken by such trauma."
John Zambito, winner of $5,000 at the Texas Hold'em Poker Tournament, joined the Pairings Party hosted by Alex Smith of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino where more celebrities attended such as NFL's Mike Allstott and Bay News 9's Anchor Jen Holloway. Amateurs, celebrities and pros were paired up at the dinner followed by a spectacular silent and live auction which included hundreds of gifts including, an ATV, a Custom Buccaneer Golf Cart, rare paintings, exquisite jewelry and cruises, just to name a few.
Hosted by Smith, the Pro-Am Celebrity Golf Tournament on Saturday was sold out months ahead with 165 golfers and more than 41 celebrities attending. "This is truly an event I am proud to be a part of," said Smith.
During the awards dinner served by Council Oaks, Mojitos, California Pizza Kitchen and a variety of other restaurants, the Pro-Am winners were announced for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd place teams, the longest drive. Taking home the first crystal trophy of the evening, the first place gross was the team of Bright House Networks with Michael Bradley, Jim Elswick, Dave Hall, Kevin Hyman and Mike Robertson. First Place Net was the Alltel Team with Shelton Quarles, Jason Kimbler, Jamie Slatton, Doug Myan and Craig Gilliam.
The Mission of The Greater Brandon Community Foundation is to improve the quality of life and shape the future of our community by creating public awareness, developing resources and supporting initiatives that address local needs.
For more information, contact Liz Brewer at 661-8683.
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