Oakcreek Country Club played host to the Chip In For Red Rock High School Golf Team Charity Tournament on Sunday, Aug. 25.
It was the first event of its kind put on. Mike Webster, the Sedona Red Rock golf coach who organized it, hopes that it will not be the last. That was an opinion shared by several of the 88 total participants who comprised the 22 teams.
“The event was a huge success,” Webster said. “Many of the players were asking when it will take place next year.”
Golfers playing in the tournament got to interact with members of the Sedona Red Rock golf team, who even participated on one of the holes.
On one of the par-threes, two of the Scorpion golfers hit the tee shots for the different teams, while their four remaining SRRHS teammates would attempt the putts on the green.
“Some teams said that was the only way they would have made a birdie,” Webster noted. “The teams really enjoyed seeing the kids play. The interaction with the kids and all the groups was great for the kid’s social skills as well.”
The team of Joe Welborn, Mike Van Horn, Alton Lightfoot and David Kessler took home the first-place prize in the four-man scramble. That quartet carded a 52, 20-under par at Oakcreek Country Club.
Other winners included Johnny Johnson, Jeff Arden and Emile Daher, who claimed the closest to the pin prizes on No. 4, No. 7 and No. 13, respectively. The long drive awards were earned by Jack Johnson for the men and Mary Mercado for the women.
The event was planned in little more than one month’s time. Additionally, it was the first event ever put on by Webster or co-organizer, Jason Bruce.
“I want to thank all our sponsors, Heather Risk, Head Pro and Oakcreek Country Club for making our first Chip In For Red Rock High School Golf Team Charity Tournament a huge success,” Webster said.
Between the players and 29 different hole sponsors, the event raised in excess of $12,000. That already has Webster thinking about not only where the money will go, but how much can be raised at this time next year.
“This will go a long way for the golf team. Not only helping for this season, but for seasons to come,” Webster added. “We are thinking of a second golf event next year for all sports. With proper planning, additional help and a year to plan, we think we can raise over $25,000.”
Michael Dixon can be reached at 282-7795, ext. 131, or email to mdixon@larsonnewspapers.com
