Golf Classic: A Swinging Success Raising $60,000 for Student Athlete Scholarships

Aug 29, 2024
A long shot of a group walking onto a manicured green of a golf course. There are yellow flowers in the foreground

Red Deer Polytechnic’s 60th Anniversary Golf Classic proved to be a hole-in-one, bringing together community members, staff, and partners for a day of camaraderie, competition, and charity. Held at the picturesque Red Deer Golf and Country Club on August 26, 2024, ideal weather conditions set the stage for a day filled with activities that appealed to golfers of all skill levels. 

RDP Staff work the Golf Classic registration table and hand out RDP Athletics jackets to golfers

The day kicked off with a breakfast courtesy of FortisAlberta, followed by opening remarks that established an upbeat atmosphere for the event. Participants eagerly awaited the shotgun start, which launched the Texas Scramble format, offering a fun and inclusive experience for all. As golfers made their way through the course, they encountered unique challenges and entertainment at various holes. One highlight was the “Hockey Putt Playoff” on Hole 2, where participants used a hockey stick to sink their putt, vying for a special prize. The excitement continued on Hole 15, where players had a thrilling opportunity to win a $35,000 cash prize for the first hole-in-one, sponsored by Beyond Insurance. 

A row of golf carts is lined up next to a fairway. A few golfers walk towards the carts with golf bags on their shoulders

Excitement carried on throughout the day with engaging activities like the "Closest to the Pin" challenge on Hole 17, where golfers competed against RDP President Stuart Cullum for a chance to win an RDP gift basket. Meanwhile, Hole 18 offered a touch of sophistication with a whiskey tasting courtesy of Diony Distillery, adding a refined finish to the afternoon’s festivities. 

As the event drew to a close, participants gathered for the awards ceremony sponsored by Canadian Tire, where top performers were celebrated. However, the real highlight of the day was the collective generosity of participants, sponsors, and donors, who together helped us reach our goal of raising $60,000 for student athlete scholarships.  

A group of RDP Athletics students smile at the camera next to Rufus the Lion, RDP's mascot

RDP Vice President of Development and Partnerships, Patrick Machacek, commended the event, highlighting the strong sense of community it fostered and the significant impact the funds will have on students. "This tournament is a fantastic example of how our community can unite to support education and create a lasting difference in the lives of our students," he remarked. 

Student athletes speak in front of a seated crowd at the 60th anniversary Golf Classic Awards dinner

As the sun set on this memorable day, the 60th Anniversary Golf Classic solidified its place as a shining example of RDP’s enduring commitment to education and community partnership. The combination of perfect weather, thrilling challenges, and meaningful connections made the event an unforgettable celebration that will leave a lasting legacy.