BAYVIEW — For a certain demographic segment in Island County, Friday, Sept. 15 is the biggest day of the year.
That day marks the annual Senior Services Golf Classic at the par 72 Useless Bay Golf & Country Club, but its significance goes far beyond the 18th hole.
“This is our most important fundraiser,” said director Rosemary Leahy. “The money we raise will allow us to reach out to seniors who need our services and build new relationships for the future.”
The event is open to players of all ages and abilities, with the emphasis being a fun day on the golf course for everyone. The tournament features a scramble format with 1 p.m. shotgun start.
The $100 entry fee — $75 for Useless Bay Colony members — includes the golf cart as well as green fees and pre-tournament use of the driving range.
Add a $25,000 hole-in-one prize — up from 10 grand last year — sponsored by Whidbey Coffee, two $300 win-win hole-in-ones and a power ball contest and it’s a tournament worth its name.
The fee also includes a gourmet awards dinner at the Useless Bay Country Club.
“Senior Services, as a nonprofit organization, provides services and programs to enhance the quality of life for seniors throughout Island County,” Leahy noted.
The tournament has grown over the past 16 years, but then so has the need. The organization provides low-income housing, dining services, meals on wheels and information and assistance programs used increasingly by younger families dealing with aging parents.
“Our big challenge is providing help to those in the 55-to-100 age bracket, literally,” Leahy explained. “There’s a stereotyped view of aging that we combat every day. True, there are lots of retired folks, but also many who are still active.”
In an average week, Island County Senior Services touches an estimated 1,850 people in one way or another.
“This tournament is a huge deal for us and those we serve, today and in the future,” Leahy said.
Golf pro and tournament director Brion Lubach promises an exciting day of golf for both sponsors and participants.
“Whidbey Island Bank has shown a continuing commitment to the work of Senior Services by underwriting this tournament each year,” Lubach said. “Many area businesses sponsor and donate to this major fundraiser on behalf of Island seniors, and we appreciate their support.”
For more information, call Leahy at 321-1600 or 360-678-3373.
Jeff VanDerford can be reached at 221-5300 or sports@southwhidbeyrecord.com.
