The First Tee Invests in the Next Generation

More than ever, local and world news reminds me why it’s so important to invest in the next generation. Teaching young people the value of respect, how to manage emotions and embrace diversity. By being a positive influence on these individuals we are making deposits in the future of our communities. Earlier this month, on June 4 and 5, 112 golfers, 20 volunteers, 15 local youth, 18 sponsors and local businesses joined forces to celebrate and elevate. It was a coming together of community to embrace the mission of The First Tee and make deposits in its future in the Sandhills.  Volunteers, Youth Participants, Board Members and Donors wore various hats as we successfully pulled off another Caddiemaster Open. This year held at Pinehurst No 2 and 8. Participants enjoyed a friendly Shamble competition, where a Low Net and Low Gross Champion was crowned, followed by a reception and awarding of prizes for closest to pin, long drive, battle of the sexes – and more! While the field was strong, participants were given a little assistance from youth of The First Tee, staged on Par 3s to play as the 5th Man (or woman) by hitting extra tee shots and stroking extra putts as well as one hole per course where a high school participant played the entire hole with the group. Chatter around the scoring table told the story of their help! Another twist on their round was two-fold, as participants approached the hardest Par 3 on their respective courses they would face the opportunity to be guaranteed a Hole in One for their team, before hitting a shot, simply by signing up to Sponsor a Child, ensuring a scholarship for a future curriculum program participant with The First Tee of the Sandhills. The generosity of our supporters paid off as 41 Hole in One’s were recorded and 41 new youth scholarships opened up. While the overall winner of the day was The First Tee of the Sandhills, the hardware was ready for distribution. Our 2017 Winners on Day 1 at Pinehurst No 8 included Low Net Team, sponsored by Golf Pride, of James Ledford, Joe King, Greg Cavill and Brandon Sowell as well as Low Gross Team, sponsored by First Bank, of Phil Fulghum, Dan McKay, George Brown and Darron Stiles. On Day 2 at Pinehurst No 2 our Low Net Team included Mitch Guy, Stuart Augustine, Travis Hibler and James Demyan – our first winning foursome from Cumberland County! Plus, our Low Gross Team of Bob Lovell, John Kober, Mark Reinemann and Nelson Wooten. As we look back on another successful Caddiemaster Open, thank you to each and every individual that contributed to the success of the day. Be on the lookout for an announcement coming soon in regard to our 2018 event date and details – held at the prestigious Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club.