'The Keith' Caddie Tournament Set For August

The fifth annual Keith R. Cerrato golf tournament will take place Monday, Aug. 5, in memory of the Garden City resident who passed away in a tragic accident nearly seven years ago.

The 24-year-old was a caddie at Cherry Valley Club, where the event is to be held, for many years, also working in the bag room and on the range, according to a press release.

“Whenever I needed some help or extra work performed Keith was always willing to volunteer. If it meant he missed a loop or an opportunity to make additional money he didn’t care. He was always the first person to volunteer and raise his hand, whether it was early in the morning or after a tireless day, he always exhibited an infectious smile and exhibited the demeanor way beyond his years,” Ed Kelly, Cherry Valley’s head pro, said.

Tournament director Bill Goldschein added, “To honor Keith’s memory and his tireless work ethic, the tournament is only open to caddies from the metropolitan region.”

Last year’s tournament had almost 100 caddies from more than 17 clubs throughout the region sponsored to play by their local clubs and/or members, according to the press release.

Goldschein said the event is "a change of pace for the caddies as they enjoy a full day of activities including practice range, lunch, golf, carts (no one had to carry their bag), a putting contest and an awards dinner after the tournament.”

All net proceeds benefit the Keith Cerrato Charitable Fund Inc., which distributes the proceeds to two scholarship funds for students in need at Hofstra University and Chaminade High School.

Keith’s parents, John and Mary Lou Cerrato, said that in the past four years the tournament has helped fund the education of some "very deserving students."

To participate in this year's tournament, you can sponsor a caddie(s) from your club for $150 per golfer by sending a check to Ed Kelly at Cherry Valley Club, 23 Rockaway Avenue, Garden City, New York 11530. Please make all checks payable to KEITH CERRATO CHARITABLE FUND INC.

For those not affiliated with a golf club, you can still contribute by sending in your sponsor fee and a caddie will be assigned to you. Sponsorship opportunities are also available by contacting Ed Kelly, Cherry Valley Club at 746-4420 or via email at ekelly@cherryvalleyclub.com or Mary Lou Cerrato at 456-3384 or via email at mloucer@gmail.com.