by Karina Hunter

Jim MacEachern, member of the winning foursome, tees off on the 1st hole.

Manitouwadge’s most anticipated golf tournament of the year was held this Saturday and in spite of a very wet course, golfer’s came out en masse to play in the Annual Connie Williams Golf Tournament.  Now in it’s 6^th year, the tournament was initially held in support of Williams and his family while he was still battling cancer so it is only fitting that the tournament started in his honour is now raising funds for others fighting the disease; this year’s tournament having been organized by the Manitouwadge Cancer Assistance Group.

 20 teams played for top spot to earn, in addition to the day’s skins moneys, first pick at a table full of prizes; enough that every player was able to walk away with something for their efforts.  As the last team came off the course, into the Community Clubhouse, an elaborate prime rib and roast supper, catered by F.P.Gorges & Sons, was served. Open to the public the feast drew in quite a crowd, many of whom had also come out to participate in the event’s finale, an auction called by town councilor Donna Jaunzarins and assisted by Mayor John MacEachern who was responsible for displaying the items for bid. Among the 30+ items, were a set of irons retailing $899.99, a mountain bike,  handmade quilts, framed prints, and even a hockey jersey from the Turkish Olympic team donated by their coach Jim MacEahern. 

Councillor Donna Jaunzarins who served as auctioneer kept the auction fast paced and fun.

MacEachern was also part of the tournament’s winning foursome alongside his father, John MacEachern, Donna Jaunzarins and Jim Ward; the team generously donated their skins winnings back to the Manitouwadge Cancer Assistance Group. Jaunzarins had this to say when asked about their gift “We are so blessed to have people working together to bring financial and emotional support  for those in need in Manitouwadge. It is always pleasure to help the Manitouwadge Cancer Assistance Group achieve their goals”. Fundraising efforts for the day have yet to be totaled but Betty Oksanen’s guess this morning (Sunday) was around $3500.00 – WOW!

The Manitouwadge Cancer Assistance Group is a non-profit organization committed to helping families and individuals in our community in the battle against cancer by providing much needed financial support that they may receive necessary medical treatment. 

Submitted to The Echo & Chronicle Journal