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NATCHEZ — After an 8-year absence, it is time again for the Golf Tournament to benefit Special Olympics Area 7. This year’s tournament will be held on Saturday, April 12, at Duncan Park Golf Course.

As in the past, this year’s Tournament will be a four-man scramble, and the Tee Time is at 8:30 a.m.

“This tournament was a favorite of area golfers for many years because it benefits the Southwest Area 7 of the Mississippi Special Olympics,” said volunteer Phyllis Lewellyn. “We are happy to be able to bring it back this year.  All funds raised stay locally to benefit our area Special Olympics athletes with sporting events and activities.”

Lewellyn said one of the best and most enjoyable aspects of this tournament is that players have the opportunity to play golf with some of our Special Athletes.

“If you have never played golf with a Special Athlete, you don’t know what you’re missing! It gives you a chance to see an example of the unconditional love of God through these athletes who only understand love.”

There are a few team slots available for this event. Click here for the registration form.

The cost per team is $500.00. Donors may also support this tournament by sponsoring a T-hole for $150.00, sponsoring an athlete to play for $75.00, donating door prizes, or making a donation in support of this event. Lunch, refreshments, and door prizes, as well as a silent auction, will be held.

At the end of the tournament is a ball drop for $3,000.00 Cash for the closest ball to the hole or in the hole and $500.00 for the second closest ball. Only 500 tickets are being sold.  A few tickets are still available at $20.00 each and can be purchased from any committee member or on the day of the event.

The event serves as a fundraiser, allowing Special Athletes the chance to participate in the Mississippi Special Olympics summer games at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Each area is responsible for raising the funds needed to pay for trip expenses. Southwest Area 7 serves over 200 athletes from Adams, Amite, Jefferson, Franklin, and Wilkinson Counties in Mississippi, as well as athletes from Concordia Parish, Louisiana.

Many businesses and individuals in the Miss-Lou area come together to support these athletes, who, without their support, would not have a chance to participate in many events.

“Area 7 Director Mrs. Tommie Jones and the committee of volunteers work very hard behind the scenes to make this one of the best and most popular tournaments held in our area,” Lewellyn said. “Most are parents and family members of our athletes and generous, caring volunteers. Without their help and hard work, this tournament would not be possible.”

Lunch will be provided for players, athletes, and volunteers by the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Department. Refreshments will be provided by many local vendors who are so generous with their donations.

Anyone who can’t make it Saturday but would still like to make a donation to Special Olympics Area 7 can mail it to Ricky Warren, 108 Tanglewood Road, Natchez, MS 39120. For any questions, call 601-597-4724.