Skidmore coach leads effort in cancer research and awareness
A full field of golfers converged on Saratoga National Golf Course in Saratoga Springs on Monday, Aug. 27, to do their part in battling cancer.
Participants from around the country were among 108 golfers taking part in the annual Teeing Off on Cancer Golf Classic, organized by Skidmore head women's basketball coach Darren Bennett.
The event raised over $25,000 for Coaches vs. Cancer and the American Cancer Society, helping to support cancer research and raise awareness of the disease. Longtime supporters Mary and Rich Flaherty of the Flaherty Family Foundation were honorary chairs of the event.
At the Teeing off on Cancer reception (left to right):Patrick
Swan of Verizon, Michele Mack of the American Cancer
Society, event Honorary Chairs Mary and Rich Flaherty, and
Darren Bennett.
"The outpouring of support from the local community and beyond has continued to grow," said Bennett. "Many of the sponsors and golfers are multi-year supporters, and most have been with us from day one. This has become a special day and a personal day for the fight against cancer for all of the folks who participate."
Added Bennett, "Through this tournament, we hope to celebrate the eradication of cancer, to celebrate the memories we have of those that have passed away because of cancer, and to celebrate the many lives that will not know the effects of this disease years from now because of the hard work we do today."
The event organizers once again encouraged supporters beyond the competing golfers to join them at Saratoga National for the post-competition reception and dinner. The event offered raffles, contests, and silent and live auctions, as well as donation drop boxes, to raise additional funds. Auction items included sports memorabilia, event tickets, dining and lodging experiences, merchandise, and gear.
"Even though Monday saw a few quick bursts of heavy rain, the golfers and event hosts were not discouraged in what turned out to be a fantastic day," said Bennett. "Once again the staff of Saratoga National and the American Cancer Society and our volunteers made it happen."
Event volunteers from Skidmore College includedThomas Bayer, Kelly Dempsey-Little,Patti Heritage, Margie Noel, and Michelle Paquette.
For more information visit www.teeingoffoncancer.org.
