The 23rd annual Brind’Amour/Nugent-Hopkins Cystic Fibrosis Golf Classic was held Saturday and organizers are touting the event as a phenomenal success once again.
The day began with 155 golfers teeing off under sunny skies at beautiful Story Creek Golf Club.
Most holes on the course featured a hole sponsor with mini-games, prizes and giveaways for those who signed up to golf and despite soaring temperatures by mid-afternoon, spirits were high in support of Cystic Fibrosis Canada‘s efforts to research a cure for the most common fatal genetic disease affecting Canadian children and young adults.
Each golf team met for a photo with Rod Brind’Amour and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins as they passed through the signature par-3 17th hole before getting a little help from the two NHL stars, who each hit tee shots the golfers could choose to play once arriving at the green.
Following the golf, dinner was held at the Sportsplex. After dinner the attendees viewed a video with Kim Black Wood, Maysa Milligan and McKenzie Norris speaking about the challenges of living with Cystic Fibrosis and what their futures may hold.
Winding up the after dinner presentations, Rod spoke from the heart about how important it is to remain aware of the CF charity and how he is grateful for the continued support of the community year after year, saying coming back to town for the tournament every year “like a family gathering.”
Next, MC Kyle Bukauskas from Rogers Sportsnet conducted a panel discussion with Brind’Amour and Nugent-Hopkins from questions submitted by the golfers. You could have heard a pin drop as the audience was riveted to their comments regarding topics from the NHL to personal hobbies outside of hockey.
Grant Stewart, who has served on the organizing committee of the event for over 20 years, says he’s always amazed – but not surprised – by the support the tournament receives each year.
“Rod and Ryan are a class act and both are a huge reason the tournament and dinner are a sell-out every year,” Stewart says, but adds it couldn’t happen without the support of the major sponsors, businesses who donated cash or auction items, dinner attendees, volunteers and the golfers for their ongoing support in the fight.
“The total raised this year was $118,000,” Stewart says. “I’d like to express a huge thank you to the golfers, tournament sponsors, local businesses and people of Campbell River who attended the dinner to support this worthwhile charity.”
