5th Annual Dusty's Golf Tournament Seeks Champions for Scholarships

Elaine Botello, a junior biology major at Texas A&M International University, commutes to class daily from the neighboring city of San Ygnacio.

Before Botello can leave home, however, she must fill her gas tank and buy something to eat on the road. Her scholarship from Texas A&M International University often comes to her rescue.

"The scholarship has helped quite a bit," said Botello, "When I have money left over, I buy food and gas," she said.

Botello, however, agrees that additional scholarship funds are needed for more students to be able to pursue their higher education dreams.

That's why she encourages golf aficionados to participate in the A&M International 5th Annual Dusty's Golf Tournament, scheduled for April 28-29 at the Lake Casa Blanca Golf Course.

The annual Tournament raises funds for the University's General Scholarship Fund.

Included in this year's tournament prizes are a shot at winning $1 million as well as a Rolex watch and new cars, said Lisa Morales, director of development.

"The Dusty Golf Tournament, over the years, has become a popular event for education supporters to come and enjoy their favorite sport while meeting students whose futures will be positively changed thanks to their contribution," Morales said, "Whether you're a beginner or a veteran golfer, we encourage everyone to grab your favorite golf bags and join a great cause this April."

The Tournament format will be a three-person scramble, teeing off in groups of six. Competition will be held in championship A,B,C,D, and Ladies Flights.

Teams will be flighted and handicapped by the Tournament directors. Individual entrants will be placed on teams prior to being flighted. Team and handicap assignments are the sole responsibility of the Tournament directors.

As usual, this year's event will start with a reception and Silent Auction on Friday, April 28, scheduled for 5-9 p.m. At this time, players may register and receive their tee times for Saturday's Tournament on a first come, first served basis.

During the event, there will be various skill contests such as putting, chipping, pitching, sand bunker and approach shot. Contestants may vie for a new car, awarded to any participant winning all five contests.

At the Saturday, April 29 Tournament, play will commence at 7:30 a.m., with afternoon groups beginning at 1 p.m. All players will be flighted and trophies and gift certificates will be awarded to the first, second, and third place teams in each flight.

A special award, which should allow the team to be more competitive in future events, will be presented to the team in each flight that finds this Tournament the most challenging.

The day will be capped off by an Awards Banquet immediately following the end of Tournament play. A door prize drawing will be conducted during the Awards Banquet.

Registration fee includes a golf cart and green fees; gift pack; Friday evening reception; continental breakfast, lunch, and Awards Banquet on Saturday.

All winners from the skills contests get their name placed in a drawing for a one-time Hole-In-One shot at winning $1 million at Hole 18.

For further information on Tournament registration, or how to sponsor the event, please contact Richard McCoy, prospect research coordinator, at 326-2167. Information may also be obtained by visiting the University's Web site at www.tamiu.edu or by e-mail at dusty@tamiu.edu.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu