Van Buren Chamber hosts 7th annual Golf Classic

Seven proved to be a truly lucky number on Monday (Sept. 15) as the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce hosted its seventh annual Chamber Golf Classic. Held at Eagle Crest in Alma, the sold-out tournament brought together more than 100 players and dozens of volunteers and sponsors for a full day fun, food, golf and networking.

The tournament kicked off with registration and check-in, followed by a hot-off-the-grill lunch at noon. Participants gathered for official team photos before making their way to their respective carts for the shotgun start at 1 p.m. The tournament included 18 holes of play, with each sponsored by a Van Buren Chamber of Commerce member.

Presented by Arkansas Valley Electric Co-operative, the Classic drew a record number of sponsors and players, and included more chances to win than ever before. The four-person scramble included 27 teams and three flights.

"This has by far been our most successful tournament to date," said Jackie Krutsch, Executive Director of the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce. "We have had phenomenal participation from our sponsors, planning committee, volunteers, and players. It is exciting to see the community come together to support the Chamber through this event."

More than $60,000 in prizes were up for grabs in the hole-in-one competition which was held on four different Par 3 holes. Potential winnings included ATVs, a 2014 Ford Fusion, and $10,000 cash. In addition to the hole-in-one contest, players could try their hand in the putting contest, longest drive competition, and closest to the pin events.

More than 70 items were also donated for the door prize drawing. Items included gift cards, autographed golf memorabilia, bottles of wine, Razorback gear and more.
Cost per four-person team was $300, with proceeds benefiting Chamber education initiatives and other community programs.

The Chamber is comprised of more than 650 members including businesses, organizations and individuals from throughout Van Buren and the surrounding region.

Following the tournament, awards were presented to the winning teams including the top finishers of each flight. Impact Construction won the first flight, with team members Mark Amos, Jeremy Hart, Cody Pugh, and Howard Simmons. The Shelter Insurance Team took first place in the second flight. Team members included Scott Adams, Bob England, Kendall Myers, and Ted McEvoy. First place in the third flight went to Continental Poultry comprised of Jong Byun, Young Byun, Ann Lee, and Peter Lee.