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The 18th Annual Darrel Chaney Invitational celebrity golf tournament supporting the United Way of White County is set for April 13-14.
The 18th Annual Darrel Chaney Invitational celebrity golf tournament supporting the United Way of White County is set for April 13-14.
The event is a major fundraiser for the United Way of White County, relying on the generosity of golfers bidding to play alongside sports celebrities, as well as those participating in raffles and auctions for various prizes and sports memorabilia.
Co-founder and former major league baseball player Darrel Chaney of Sautee Nacoochee says this year’s event is shaping up to be the biggest and best one yet, once again with names from professional sports and the Olympics. In its history, the golf tournament has netted around a half-million dollars for the local United Way, which contributes funds to community service organizations providing aid to White County residents, including $85,000 presented this year in annual allocations.
“It’s just good to be able to contribute to the community,” Chaney says, while touting the dedication and passion of the tournament committee.
Chaney notes a sponsorship opportunity has opened up for the post-tournament raffle, auction and dinner, with the opportunity to have a team and be featured on event banners.
Chaney, who played with the Cincinnati Reds and Atlanta Braves, notes some of the items to be won at the event includes signed baseball from Braves players, a signed bat by Reds catcher and hall of famer Johnny Bench, and items autographed by Los Angeles Rams (and Georgia Bulldog) running back Todd Gurley.
More items to help raise money are always welcome. Anyone interested in sponsorships or contributing prizes to raffle and auction – such as a gift certificates from restaurants or prize package from businesses – should contact contact Chaney at 770-715-1599 or Bill Sutton Jr. at 706-244-6717.
Chaney also points out the tournament helps more than local service organizations by drawing in crowds to participate.
“It helps out those in need,” he says. “And it also creates a lot of revenue for local establishments.”
To learn more, visit www.unitedwaywhitecounty.org.
EVENT SCHEDULE
The public is invited to a “Meet the Celebrities” tournament kickoff event beginning 6 p.m. Monday, April 13, at Bigg Daddys in Helen.
The golf tournament opens at 8 a.m. Tuesday, April 14, at Innsbruck Golf Club. An awards dinner with silent and live auction fundraisers follows at 6 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Helen.