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| Temperate weather was the highlight of the AM round. |
Descent into Meteorological Madness
The morning round started bright and early with 21 teams taking on the number 31 golf course in America. Despite predictions, the weather was wire-to-wire pleasant for the AMers, offering hope that it may hold together for the PMers, as well. The weather horn interrupted the luncheon, delaying the 19-team afternoon start by 45 minutes. That was a portent of the end of the day. The weather held back seemingly as long as possible, but the bottom finally dropped out about 5:00 pm, when high winds and huge rain swamped the course. That cut the round a bit short, and kicked off the cocktail reception a bit ahead of schedule, which seemed to bother no one.
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| The afternoon rains came, so the reception began! |
Through it all, The Honors staff was right on top it. At the clubhouse, food and drink were prepared ahead and on the patio almost as soon as the balance of the day was deferred to Mother Nature. The pros tracked the weather almost to the minute, making every right call concerning player safety.
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| The Honors Vice President Mark Degler accepts recognition from Mike Jenkins for raising $1.1 million for United Way. |
This was the 15th year that the The Honors has hosted the Classic, which is a tremendous distinction for the tournament. Tournament Chairman Mike Jenkins formally recognized The Honors membership and staff for their contribution over the history of the tournament of nearly $1.1 million. Honors Vice President Mark Degler accepted the recognition on their behalf. Honors founder Jack Lupton and tournament namesake, Frank McDonald, were tremendous friends, and both demonstrated their commitment to the community most prominently through their relationship with United Way.
Good Day All-Round
Amenities were plentiful throughout today, from the traditional biscuit breakfast in the morning, to the delicious down-home Honors lunch at the turn of the rounds. Players were again treated to trip through the Titleist Store, while winners cashed in their gift certificates to the newly renovated and expanded Honors Pro Shop.
Again, no winners of the Kelly Car-sponsored prize on #8. The best team attempt was 4 on the green in the morning round, but, according the hole spotters, threats were few otherwise. Thanks to Kelly Cars, which has sponsored our Hole-in-One contests for 15 consecutive years.
DID YOU PLAY? PLEASE TAKE OUR PLAYER SURVEY!
DID YOU PLAY? PLEASE TAKE OUR PLAYER SURVEY!
Sold Out!
With the tournament officially sold out this year, Chairman Mike Jenkins estimates that the event will raise between $90,000 and $100,000 for United Way. None of it happens without the generous participation of our presenting sponsors -- Chattanooga Times Free Press, Coca-Cola and BI-LO. Additional thanks to Kelly Cars and Budweiser of Chattanooga.
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| UW's Jenny Johnston helps a player spend his $100 credit at the Titleist Store. |
Much thanks goes to the tournament planning committee, which includes David Kelley, Mickey McCamish, Bill Webb, Tanya Williamson and Tom White.
Tremendous thanks and gratitude goes to the professional staff of The Honors. Head Pro Henrik Simonsen, Assistant Pro Jeremy Cason, Club Manager Ashton Harris, the clubhouse and pro staff, caddies and maintenance crew worked seamlessly to provide everyone an outstanding tournament experience.
Plan Now for Next Year
The date for the next edition of the United Way Frank McDonald Memorial Golf Classic will be coming your way later this year. Plan and budget now to join us for another tremendous day at The Honors in 2016!
