Pat Cornett
On March 8 and 9, the PebbleCreek Irish American Club hosted their 16th annual charity golf tournament. Lots of golf, fun, and camaraderie was had by all. Over $20,000 was raised from our members, putters, golfers, and sponsors, which will go directly to local charities and scholarships!
The two-day event began with a putting contest on Saturday afternoon on the Tuscany practice green with 18 holes laid out between a lot of green garlands, multiple obstacles to include a Leprechaun or two, and some well-known Irish beverages. Highlights included all the “wearing of the green” by participants and volunteers along with several accurate putts by experienced and inexperienced putters. The first place winning team was Mark Handzel, John Howell, Dale Everson, and Steve Schwartz. That evening a Calcutta was held in the ballroom. Sunday turned out to be a perfect day for golf starting with coffee and donuts courtesy of American Wealth Advisers enjoyed by 200 golfers and 40 volunteers during the check-in process. The 18-hole Quota tournament started at 8 a.m., while the 9-hole Scramble tournament began at 10 a.m.
The golfers displayed exceptional skill and sportsmanship throughout the day; there were impressive drives, precise chip shots, and remarkable putts. The camaraderie and friendly competition were evident as participants encouraged one another and celebrated each other’s successes.
As the final tournament rounds ended and scores were tallied, anticipation grew for the award ceremony. The Tuscany Falls Ballroom buzzed with excitement as participants and volunteers gathered to enjoy a well-deserved lunch. The tantalizing aroma of the delicious meal filled the air, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Following lunch, the awards ceremony commenced, recognizing the outstanding performances. Prizes were awarded to the top golfers in both the 18-hole Quota and 9-hole Scramble tournaments. The first place teams in the 9-hole groups were: Mixed flight—Tim McBride, Bill Chew, Joyce Chew, and Mary Antil; Men’s flight—Kurt Kleinknecht, Timothy Kohler, Bernie Bangert, and Dean Samuelson; Women’s flight—Karen Kleinknecht, Julie Bangert, Koni Hohnbaum, and Kathy Kohler. Of the 26 teams that played 18 holes, the winning first place foursome included Susan Moloney, Patrick Moloney, Peggy Moloney, and Elisabeth Woosley.
Special recognition was given to those golfers who exemplified “wearing of the green” (‘A ghabháil an uaine’ in Irish Gaelic): Greg McGee and Joan Fafoglia for the best male and female and the winners for the best team were Dotty Thomas, Kathi Catalano, Marty Kirkman, and Jan Van Horn. Saturday’s winners at the putting contest were Tim McBride and Mary Antil. Congratulations to all.
The 16th Annual Charity Golf Tournament concluded with heartfelt thanks and applause for everyone involved, leaving participants with fond memories and a sense of accomplishment for supporting local charities and scholarships. The success of the event highlighted the strong community spirit and commitment of the PebbleCreek Irish American Club to making a positive impact on our community.
For more information about the club, sponsorships, or tournament details, please see the club’s website: pcirishaz.org.