2010 Patriot Golf Day Sets Record


Labor Day Weekend was a chance for golfers nationwide to honor our American heroes by participating in the Fourth Annual Patriot Golf Day. With the support of PGA professionals and USGA members hosting Patriot Golf Day Weekend events at their facilities, a record amount of more than $2.7 million has been recorded as of October 29 to benefit the Folds of Honor Foundation, bringing the total to more than $8 million since the event began in 2007.

Patriot Golf Day, jointly supported by the PGA of America and the United States Golf Association, is the primary fundraiser for Folds of Honor Foundation, which provides post-secondary educational scholarships for children and spouses of military service men and women killed or disabled while serving our great nation. A total of 1,163 educational scholarships have been awarded by Folds of Honor since 2007, with hundreds more to be awarded in 2011.

"Since its origin in 2007, it has been extremely gratifying to witness the support that PGA Professionals have given to Patriot Golf Day," said PGA of America president Jim Remy. "The game of golf leads the way in giving back to others in so many ways, and Patriot Golf Day lies at the heart of that benevolence in serving so many deserving families of our American heroes."

Patriot Golf Day was originated by Major Dan Rooney, an F-16 pilot, PGA Professional and USGA Member from Broken Arrow, Okla., who has served three tours of duty in Iraq. During Labor Day Weekend at participating courses nationwide, golfers were asked to donate at least $1 for each round of golf.

The inaugural Patriot Golf Day was held September 1, 2007, and resulted in donations of more than $1.1 million. More than $2.1 million was raised in 2008 and more than $2.3 million was raised in 2009.

"Thanks to the selfless fundraising efforts of PGA professionals, USGA members and clubs, and amateur golfers across the country, Patriot Golf Day has seen another record-breaking year in donations received," Rooney said. "Because of this generosity, we can truly make a difference and make sure that our national heroes and their families receive the educational support they deserve."

Individuals interested in contributing to Folds of Honor, and those applying for scholarships should visit www.FoldsofHonor.com. The 2011 application process begins in January.

The above report is courtesy of the PGA of America.