Close to 40 Kelowna Rockets alumni have converged on the Harvest Golf and Country Club for the Rockets Alumni Foundation’s 16th annual Alumni Golf Tournament.
Title sponsor Scotiabank kicked off the proceedings on Friday morning by donating a matching cheque for $15,000, ensuring the tournament raises at least $30,000.
All proceeds from the event will benefit the Canucks Autism Network in support of recreational and developmental programs for children with autism. All the proceeds donated will stay in Kelowna and assist programs for children diagnosed with autism.
“We’re thrilled to be able to continue this long-running tournament and help out the Canucks Autism Network, the charity chosen by our alumni foundation,” said Rockets’ marketing director Anne-Marie Hamilton. “Over the years we have been very proud to raise money for local charities, money that has stayed in the community.”
Among the Rockets alumni that are taking part in the one-day event include hometown Kelowna player Josh Gorges as well as long-time NHLer Vern Fiddler. Former captains Ryan Cuthbert and Colton Sissons, along with popular Rockets Brett McLean and Cody Almond will also be taking part.
New graduating players Cole Linaker and Tyson Baillie as well as Justin Kirkland also took part along with many others, playing in foursomes with fans and sponsors alike.
The Kelowna Rockets alumni have gathered in Kelowna each summer for the past 16 years raising over $350,000 during that time with money raised before 2015 going to the Kelowna General Hospital.
