Ladies golf association raises big bucks for cancer research

Jim McConnell and Sandy Murchinson grabbed the grand prize while helping, along with a few hundred others, to raise $16,000 for the Arizona Cancer Center May 2 at Torres Blancas Golf Club.

The TB Ladies Golf Association teamed with Green Valley Sole-Mates to stage their third and most successful tournament to aid in cancer research, thanks to co-chairs Kathy Wong and Mary Yager.

It was a full house last week, as 144 golfers—20 more than expected—teed off in the one best ball per twosome format, followed by a silent auction that included airline tickets, a day at Canyon Ranch Spa, a round at the Phoenician in Phoenix and works of art.

The Sole-Mates, a local running/walking group helped the TB Ladies Association with arrangements, and Dave Campanale through State Farm Insurance sponsored a closest to the pin contest, while Dry Creek Outfitters (ORVIS) put up $500 for a hole-in-one.

There were many local hole sponsors and donors as well who made the event a great success.

Arizona Cancer Center, receiving all the proceeds, continues to enhance its reputation as one of the top centers in the country for researching cures and finding treatments for a disease that remains the leading cause of death among people over 85.

It is one of 39 comprehensive cancer centers in the United States, and is looked to for advanced treatments by cancer patients from all over the world.

Dick and Chris Portmann, who is a cancer survivor, took a second place prize; Gail Forman and DeWayne Anderson grabbed third; Bob Guelzow and Clyde Brothers, Jill Wright and Carole Benson, Vern Bauer and Len Heniz tied for fourth; and Victor DiLoreto and Jerry Holtz, David Gaitley and Woods Davis, Larry and Roxy Harshbarger, Kathleen Petersen and Karen McFadden, Linda and J.E. Lattin, and Rick and Jana Oxenford all finished fifth.

Mike Touzeau is a freelance writer for the Green Valley News.