by Frank Brazell
Well sports fans, another Manna University Golf Tournament is in the books. This year, the 14th Annual Dr. Steven Crowther Memorial Golf Tournament was a roaring success. 91 golfers braved the threat of rain to shoot a round at Gates Four Golf and Country Club. Thankfully, the rain held off until the end of the day, and our golfers were able to enjoy a cool, breezy morning. Second-year event coordinator Elsa McBride, when asked about the most rewarding part of putting on the event, commented, “It was watching the golfers thoroughly enjoy themselves, knowing how their presence and the sponsorship of all our veteran and first responder teams also actually benefit our students through scholarships and academic programs.”
When asked about the importance of our annual golf tournament, McBride continued, “It is a beautiful day honoring our former President Dr. Steve Crowther [full] of camaraderie, thrilling golf, and a shared commitment to supporting academic programs and providing scholarships. This event holds special significance as it not only celebrates the joy of the sport but also honors and serves our veterans and first responders.”
For this author, it’s always a day of rest, even while I’m working to ensure our golfers have an excellent experience. As I sat overlooking the tee box of Hole 7 (as opposed to my beloved Hole 15, which had a different chaperone this year), I was able to reflect on how the Tournament has grown over the years. The number of signs thanking our sponsors, perched upon the practice green, grew considerably this year. The number of carts, neatly arranged in rows near the registration table, now take up most of the concrete pad where our teams gather. Amusingly, the number of golfers I got to see slice one into the woods has also increased, as our teams expand to include even the most casual of golfers. Of course, the legends of prior tournaments continue to return to Gates Four, driving from all over North Carolina, and as far as Atlanta, to participate in the tournament and to support Manna University.
Manna University is grateful for our golfers, who were a pleasure to serve as always. We are also grateful for our 52 food and prize partners, as well as our 19 event sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor Paraclete XP and Platinum Sponsor Manna Church Fayetteville/Ft. Liberty. Thank you all for making this year’s tournament an event to remember!
Ready to get involved? Our 15th Annual Dr. Steven Crowther Memorial Golf Tournament is already scheduled for March 28th, 2025. Be sure to save the date for what is sure to be another exciting day of golf!
