Killaloe – St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation (SFVHF) hosted its annual golf tournament fundraiser on Friday at Wolf Ridge Golf Course and organizers are dubbing the event another success.

Foundation Executive Director Erin Gienow replied “absolutely” when asked if the 2024 tournament was another success, adding 39 teams teed it up for the 20^th anniversary event, one more team than is usually admitted.

Mrs, Gienow said there were a few new teams this year, combined with the many familiar faces that always support the tournament. Most of the teams have been participating for many years, she said, noting Brian Norlock has entered a team in all 20 events.

In its 20-year history, the tournament has raised $525,000.

“The hospital has annual needs, so we’re funding the purchase of telemetry equipment for the hospital,” she explained.

Participants had the opportunity to participate in the putting contest, “Double Your Money” where they wager on whether they will hit the green or not, and “Heads or Tails” where they flip a coin at dinner.

A highlight was a rare ‘Hole in One’ recorded by Pembroke lawyer, Matt Bradley, who won $1,000 for the ace on Hole 8, sponsored by Summer Bros. in Killaloe.

“Traditionally, we have a car (for a year) for a hole-in-one prize, and this year Tim (Summers) approached our golf committee with this idea,” Mrs. Gienow explained. “A hole-in-one rarely happens. It has only happened once before, so he offered to give $1,000, which he normally spent on insurance. And then someone was guaranteed to win.”

The committee loved the idea and the concept was changed that the closest to the pin on Hole 8 would win $1,000.

“So, lo and behold, Matt Bradly got a hole-in-one and won $1,000.” she remarked.

Mrs. Gienow thanked the team of 20 volunteers who helped organize and stage the event. She added there were 72 sponsors, adding the support from businesses, organizations and individuals each year is incredible.

“They respond to our ask year after year, and we always manage to reach our goal,” she said.

The dinner was catered by the golf course and Andrea Budarick provided doughnuts and the Wilno Tavern the appetizers. The crowd was entertained at dinner by the duo, Two For The Road, with Dr. Jason Malinowski and Amy Easton.