Yesterday, 165 golfers gathered at Glen Abbey Golf Club to commence the 42nd annual Oakville Italian Invitational Golf Tournament, a locally cherished charity event.
The tournament began with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m., launching a Texas Scramble where participants aimed for low scores and competed in challenges for closest to the pin, longest drive, and longest putt.
The day's top score came from a group of three, who shot eleven under par.
Amidst the camaraderie and competition, golfers each shared a unified mission: to raise funds for deserving charities. "Our money goes to good causes that don't have administrative fees attached; it goes straight to the recipient," explained event committee member Carmen Bonfiglio.
Last year's event raised $35,000, a figure that this year's tournament is expected to surpass. The funds benefitted three charities last year, and the same organizations will receive support again from this year's tournament.
Last year, Brain Cancer Canada received $20,000, Good Neighbour Ministries was awarded $10,000 for their summer youth camp, and Smile Therapy Centre in Burlington received $5,000.
As the largest beneficiary, Brain Cancer Canada expressed immense gratitude for the continued support. "Brain Cancer Canada is honoured to be the recipient of Oakville Italian Invitational’s fundraising efforts," said Chair Angela Scalisi.
"Funds from the event will be invested in badly needed pediatric and adult brain cancer research. We are hopeful that one day soon our investment in research will help unlock treatment opportunities for the thousands of Canadians diagnosed with one of the most lethal cancers we know."
Representatives from Good Neighbour Ministries and Smile Therapy Centre expressed similar gratitude as the group enjoyed a dinner together at the club house.