Southern Ohio PGA Shines with
Challenge for Kids

TravelGolf.com Staff Report

Southern Ohio PGA 'Hits Home Run' in 135-Hole Challenge for Kids to Support National Golf Day

CINCINNATI, OH (SEPT. 18, 2001) - Calling it a "blueprint for success" for area fund-raising efforts, the Southern Ohio PGA Section completed its first City of Cincinnati 135-Hole Challenge for Kids, Sept. 6, to support National Golf Day.

The section coordinated fundraising at all seven of Cincinnati's municipal golf courses, with two three-person teams playing 14 continuous hours at the city venues which boast 135 total holes. The event produced donations of more than $4,000 to support junior golf.

"With the public awareness that was produced and the enthusiasm among the media exceeded our expectations, it was a home run," said Southern Ohio PGA Executive Director Ron Stepanek.

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Stepanek coordinated the event, and was a member of one team that included Cincinnati Enquirer golf writer Carey Hoffman and FOX 19 sports anchor Dan Hoard. Playing at five of the seven courses, they finished 95 holes, making 117 pars and 13 birdies.

Steve Pacella, director of golf for the City of Cincinnati, led the second team, which included Tony Yates, former University of Cincinnati player and coach; and Greg Waddell, general manager of ESPN 1160 AM. The trio completed 115 holes, and recorded 64 pars, 20 birdies and one player finishing each hole.

"It was tremendous to have the media support, and I believe that they understood the messages we have put across to promote junior golf," Stepanek said.

The PGA of America's annual National Golf Day fundraising program for junior golf began nationwide on Aug. 1 and concludes Oct. 1. PGA Professionals annually conduct a variety of fundraising promotions ranging from teach-a-thons to golf marathons, all raising pledges earmarked for junior golf programs at the local and PGA Section level.