The greens are set to welcome local dignitaries, business leaders, and golf enthusiasts as Airdrie Mayor Peter Brown announces the return of his annual charity golf tournament with a meaningful twist. This year’s event, scheduled for June 14 at the prestigious Woodside Golf Course, will direct all proceeds to the Airdrie Food Bank, addressing rising food insecurity concerns in the community.
“We’ve seen unprecedented demand at our food bank over the past year,” Mayor Brown explained during yesterday’s press conference. “The tournament has always been about bringing our community together for a cause, and this year, that cause couldn’t be more vital.”
The Mayor’s Golf Tournament has become a staple in Airdrie’s summer calendar, previously raising funds for various local initiatives including youth programs and community infrastructure projects. Last year’s event raised over $85,000, setting a high bar for this summer’s fundraising goals.
Lisa Richards, Executive Director of the Airdrie Food Bank, expressed profound gratitude for being selected as this year’s beneficiary. “With grocery prices continuing to climb, many families who never thought they’d need our services are walking through our doors,” Richards noted. “These funds will help us expand our emergency hamper program and enhance our community kitchen initiatives.”
The tournament format remains a four-person scramble, accommodating 144 players across 36 teams. Early registration indicates strong community support, with over half the spots already claimed by returning participants and corporate sponsors.
Tournament organizers have enhanced this year’s experience with silent auction items valued at over $30,000, including weekend getaways, signed sports memorabilia, and exclusive dining experiences. The day will conclude with a gourmet dinner reception featuring local cuisine and a keynote address from a yet-to-be-announced Canadian sports figure.
Corporate engagement has reached new heights for the 2024 tournament. Airdrie-based construction firm Northstar Developments has stepped up as the presenting sponsor with a $15,000 contribution, while several local businesses have committed to sponsoring individual holes and contest prizes.
“The business community understands that a healthy city requires supporting those who are struggling,” commented Chamber of Commerce President Michelle Watson. “This tournament provides a platform for corporate social responsibility while building valuable networking relationships.”
For participants, the $225 individual registration fee includes green fees, cart rental, practice facilities access, lunch, dinner, and a commemorative gift package. Registration remains open through the city’s recreation portal until May 31, or until all spots are filled.
Beyond the immediate financial impact, the tournament serves as a reminder of Airdrie’s community-minded ethos. City Councillor Tina Thompson emphasized the event’s significance beyond dollars raised: “When we gather for causes like this, we reinforce what makes Airdrie special—our willingness to support neighbors in need.”
As food bank usage statistics continue to trend upward across Canada, Airdrie’s approach to addressing local food security through community events like the Mayor’s Golf Tournament represents a practical model for municipal engagement in social issues.
As players prepare to tee off this June, the question remains: in an era of growing economic disparity, how can recreational community events like this one be leveraged more effectively to address our most pressing social challenges?
