Atlanta Clan na nGael hosted our annual Golf Classic at the Heritage Golf Links on Saturday May 10th, 2014 with 22 teams consisting of 84 golfers competing in a scramble tournament format. The turnout for the 2014 Golf Classic represented a 30% increase on the corresponding event last year as a result of the tremendous support of the local Irish American community.
Registration commenced at noon with pre-golf entertainment provided via an exhibition of Irish dancing by the King O’Sullivan School of Irish Dance. All players enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere prior to tee time as beverages were served to the backdrop of traditional Irish music. Pleasant weather and the pristine condition of course facilitated a enjoyable day for all players. Hole in one prizes including a $10,000 cash prize were provided at each of the par 3 holes which stimulated friendly competition among players within each team.
Complimentary food was provided to all players in the clubhouse after the round as the Ballybeg Band played traditional Irish music to entertain the crowd. After compilation of the scores for each team, the leader board as per above was announced. The winning team with a net score of 50 consisted of Stephen Colman, Michael McBrearity, Micheal Smith & Paul Gleeson. The captain of the winning team from the 2013 Golf Classic, Jim O’Sullivan, presented the trophy to team captain Stephen Colman.
The Consulate General of Ireland in Atlanta, Paul Gleeson, addressed all those in attendance to outline the exponential growth of Gaelic Games in recent years across the southeastern United States. Paul Gleeson presented spot prizes to the teams who finished in second, third and last places in addition to prizes for the longest drive (Chris Kendrick) and closest to the pin (Vick van Standen). A hamper of Irish food & drink was presented to Paul White who’s winning ticket was drawn from the raffle. Finally, as a token of the club’s gratitude for his support during his tenure in Atlanta, Paul Bradley presented Paul Gleeson with lifetime honorary membership of the Atlanta Clan na nGael GAA club.
Thanks to all who participated to make this event thoroughly enjoyable for all and those who contributed via hole sponsorship. Special thanks to Jim O’Sullivan, Martin McDonnell & Paul White whose help was crucial to the success of the day. Finally, the club is grateful for the work undertaken by the Golf Classic Committee (Brian Boland, Paul Bradley, Kieran Cronin & David O’Donoghue) and all members who volunteered to help out on the day.
For more photos from the event, please check out our gallery of the day.