Hurricane Irma caused some damage to the golf courses at Quail Creek Country Club in Naples, necessitating a postponement of the Florida Gulf Coast University Founder’s Cup Golf Tournament, now set for Thursday, Dec. 14.
“Although we are disappointed that we cannot hold the tournament in October, as we traditionally do, the delay allows Quail Creek Country Club to bring the courses back up to their exemplary standard, guaranteeing that golfers will once again enjoy a great day on both courses,” says Lindsey Touchette, director of major gifts and tournament director. “Our thoughts are with our friends at Quail Creek, and our entire Southwest Florida community, as we all work to recover from the storm.”
Despite the postponement, golfers will be assured stunning vistas, two challenging courses and the camaraderie of fellow golf enthusiasts at this annual event that’s a perennial sell-out.
Beyond being an outstanding day of golf and fun, it’s one that serves a greater purpose, says Christopher Simoneau, FGCU Foundation Executive Director and the university’s Vice President for Advancement. “Funds raised by the Founder’s Cup Golf Tournament help ensure that our students receive the best education possible, supplying scholarships and programs to enhance their experience. The tournament has been raising funds for the university since before FGCU opened its doors.”
This year, the fundraiser celebrates its 26th year. Since its inception, the tournament has raised more than $1.6 million — including $135,000 last year — for programs that support academic excellence, scholarships and student success.
“The Founder’s Cup provides a significant financial boost to the university’s mission in support of students, faculty and staff,” Simoneau says. “The commitment of so many sponsors and community supporters year after year shows their deep belief in the importance of higher education. We are truly appreciative of their long-time involvement.”
The event will begin with a buffet luncheon at 11:30 a.m. at the Quail Creek clubhouse. Golfers will begin play at 1 p.m. with a shotgun start on the club’s two championship courses. Designed by world-renowned golf course architect Arthur Hills, the Quail and Creek courses offer 36 holes of challenges for players of all skill levels. Following tournament play, golfers will enjoy a dinner buffet and awards reception.
Each year, the event receives support from a number of Southwest Florida’s leading companies. Joe Gammons of Office Furniture and Design Concepts, Inc. and chair of the event said, “While the day-long event is both social and competitive, we consider this an investment in the workforce of tomorrow. As a local company, we are proud to support the valuable work that takes place at Florida Gulf Coast University.”
Sponsorship opportunities are still available at several levels. For more information on sponsorships, contact Touchette at (239) 590-1016. For general tournament information, or to register a team go to the 2017 Founder’s Cup website.