5th Annual "Dusty's" Golf Tournament Brings Silent Auction to Life

If you often shy away from auctions because you think that items sold are beyond your pocket's reach, the 5th Annual "Dusty's" Golf Tournament Silent Auction may surprise you.

With items ranging from a children's book basket and free Internet access to gourmet dinners and a Colorado condo stay, there will be participation opportunities for everyone at the event scheduled for April 28, from 5-9 p.m. at the Lake Casa Blanca Golf Course.

Proceeds from the auction, as well as the Tournament, scheduled from April 28-29, will be used to raise scholarship funds for the University's General Scholarship Fund.

Richard McCoy, Tournament coordinator, said the University extends a most cordial welcome to all participants.

"This is an invitation to all those who wish to make a difference in students' lives by participating in the annual sports event. What is great about 'Dusty's' Golf Tournament is that it is designed with many people's interests in mind," he said, "You don't have to be a golf pro or an experienced auction goer. The skills contests and reception, for example, are an excellent way for you to have fun while meeting other supporters like you or students whose lives have been touched because of your contribution."

McCoy said donors have played a key role in the event's increased popularity.

"We are delighted to know that more individuals and entities are recognizing the importance of higher education every year and want to partner with us in making students' dreams a reality," McCoy said.

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

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. 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 a $1 million annuity at Hole 18.

For further information on Tournament registration, or how to sponsor the event, please contact McCoy 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