AMHERST - Knowing the importance of supporting the local hospital, a number of businesses are once again sponsoring hole-in-one prizes at the 14th annual Highland Classic.
"All of us are aware that, to improve our hospital we have to support these events," said Mike Stack of Barnes Insurance, who is sponsoring one of the prizes for a hole-in-one this year.
The annual Cumberland Regional Health Care Foundation golf tournament will see at least 30 teams teeing off at the Amherst Golf Club on Aug. 7 in hopes of reaching the foundation's goal of raising $36,000 this year.
Over the existence of the Highland Classic, more than $300,000 has been raised for local health care.
Joe Gauthier, managing director of the Foundation, said the money raised through the tournament will support programs, such as the county-wide volunteer program.
"We have volunteers in all five hospitals in the county - involved in friendly visiting, information, being peer trainers for patients with chronic illnesses and volunteers with the Cumberland Health Authority's breast feeding program," he said.
"And the money may also fund other services and programs where money is needed."
Prizes this year for hole in ones (holes 4, 9, 13 and 15) include two of $30,000 cash and two new vehicles. Sponsoring those prizes are Barnes Insurance, RBC Royal Bank, Amherst Chrysler and Scotia Hyundai.
Since the latter has been in business, owner Angus Furlong has been involved with the classic, saying it's a good cause, and Gary Tower and RBC have been big supporters of the hospital and health care in general.
"Everybody has been treated there at some point," said Gauthier.
Dave Wood, chair of the foundation, said he thinks the world of those supporters of both the foundation and the tournament.
"We've been getting so much support because it's for such a good cause," he said.
Registration is $700 per team, with six spots still available.
For more information or to register, contact the foundation office at 667-5400, ext. 6126.
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