ROCKINGHAM — Area golfers looking to support the Richmond County Chamber of Commerce, while also having some Hawaiian fun in the process, can do so in the 15th annual Luau on the Links event.
What was started as part of the Program of Work for the Chamber in 2006, the fundraiser offers a day of networking on the greens for its businesses and business members.
Emily Tucker, who has served as the Chamber’s president the last 14 years, has been a part of nearly every golf tournament. Because of its Hawaiian theme, grass skirts and other island-themed props are a part of the fun.
“It’s considered the ‘FUN tournament’ by several of our regular attendees,” Tucker explained. “We usually host some games on the course to keep the day fun and exciting.
“If you love to golf, or just love to come hang out, volunteer and meet some of our members, this is a great day on the links.”
The all-day tournament will be held on Friday, Sept. 18, at Foxfire Resort and Golf. Golfers, who will play on the Red Fox course, can begin registration at 7:15 a.m.
The fundraiser has been split into two flights, the first going out at 8 a.m., followed by the second at 12:45 p.m.
In addition to serving as a way to connect its members and the community, Luau on the Links also sees its proceeds support several of the Chamber’s community projects and programs.
Some of them, Tucker noted, are Leadership Richmond and Partners in Education and New Teachers.
Over the last several years, the fundraiser has averaged between 100 and 120 golfers. Tucker said the event can have 72 golfers in each flight, which she considers to be a full tournament.
Currently, there are 16 teams signed up to compete.
“It’s a long, but fun day,” Tucker said. “I think we started the double flights back around 2012 and it has grown every year since.
“We see some of the same volunteers every year and they all know their jobs and don’t have to be asked, and that’s the joy in my job. My volunteers are the best and they love their job.”
Golf courses have been one of the few public businesses to remain open during the entire COVID-19 pandemic, and Tucker said precautions are being put in place to ensure a safe outing for all involved.
“Our goal this year is to have a ‘contact-free’ check-in process,” Tucker explained. “And we will allow teams to their carts, and when their entire team is present, they may begin play.
“We also plan to have guidelines in place to allow teams to report their score by text at the end of the tournament.”
According to its website, the Chamber has 96 members. The Luau on the Links tournament serves as a great way for these businesses to come together and have fun, all while continuing to grow the county’s business structure.
“As far as community unity, I believe our community has some cabin fever and is looking for activities to take part in,” Tucker closed. “Golf is a non-contact sport and will allow participants to practice social distancing.”
For golfers to register, they can visit the Chamber’s website, call 910-895-9058 or email the Chamber at info@richmondcountychamber.com.
All sponsorships are due by Aug. 31, and teams are due by Sept. 10. The cost is $80 per golfer or $320 for a foursome. The price includes green fees, cart rental and lunch.
