Dad's Golf Tournament Benefits School, Community

Each year the dads of Lake Magdalene Elementary School come together over back-swings and birdies all in the name of a good cause.

And this year is no different. On May 4, the Lake Magdalene Dad's Club will host their Annual Golf Tournament. The event will start at 1p.m. and be held at Babe Zaharis Golf Course, 11412 Forest Hills Dr.

In its 22nd year, the fundraiser raises money for the school's annual community functions, including the fishing derby and school picnic. A portion of this year's funds will go to Operation Helping Hand.

Patch caught up with Mike Faraguna, Lake Magdalene Dad's Club President, to learn more about this signature event:

Patch: How many people attended last year's golf tournament and how much did it raise?

Faraguna: We had 88 golfers participate with funds raised in excess of $5,000.

Patch: Why do you think the Dad's Club has continued this tradition?

Faraguna: Given the natural affinity between dads and golf, and the fairly structured nature of golf tournaments, this has been an easy tradition to continue. Each year the event does take on some twists. This year's director, Nick Spurlock, is trying to bring some added excitement to the event with live hole sponsorships and hole-in-one contests. The tournament fees will also include exceptional food being offered by PDQ Carrollwood and Gino's Restaurant.

Patch: Where was the tournament held last year, and why Babe Zaharis this year?

Faraguna: Last year's tournament was held at MacDill Air Force Base. The decision to move the event to Babe Zaharias was driven largely by the goal of creating more of a school community event. With the Babe literally around the corner from the school, it made perfect sense.

Patch: How many golfers do you expect this year?

Faraguna: Our goal is to max-out the tournament at 120 golfers. The event is already being promoted to past participants, the school community and the general public, so we are hopeful of reaching that goal.

Patch: What can the community do to help?

Faraguna: Go to our website at www.LMEdadsclubgolf.com to find our more about the tournament and to register to participate. If you are unable to participate but would still like to support the benefiting groups, please click on the "Donate Now" link to make a donation. Businesses can show their support through corporate sponsorships and donations of goods or services for our after-golf raffle. Lastly, the community can help us promote the event to family, friends and their neighborhood businesses.

If You Go:

What: Lake Magdalene Elementary School Dads' Club Annual Golf Tournament

When: May 4 at 1:00p.m.

Cost: Individual Golfer:$75; Foursomes:$280

For more information about the Lake Magdalene Elementary Dad's Club Golf Tournament visit their website at http://www.lmedadsclubgolf.com/