On Monday, September 17th, The 10th annual American Ireland Fund New Jersey Golf Classic, marked its anniversary by setting a fundraising record as the most successful AIF New Jersey golf event to date. The Classic was in support of The Ireland Funds Promising Ireland Campaign to assist charities in need in Ireland and around the world.
Led by Chairman Thomas Ryan, the outing was sold out well over a month before the Classic was held.
After 6 years at the legendary Baltusrol Golf Club, The outing moved to the incredible Bayonne Golf Club, in Bayonne, NJ. The course is described as the closest thing to an Irish links course on this side of the Atlantic Ocean.
The day started with a convenient ferry ride from Battery Park, NYC that was provided by the club. When the guests arrived back on shore they were greeted by the amazing staff of the Bayonne Golf Club, there to welcome them warmly.
With a best ball and low net score format, the outing was a real test of golf skill on a very challenging course. When all was said and done, the foursome of Charles Carrol, Bill Collins, Jason Groth and Doran Hole took home the title with a low net score of 52.
After a long day on the course (For some, longer than others) the guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d'oeuvres on the patio, followed by a four star buffet dinner.
Worldwide Ireland Funds President & CEO, Kieran McLoughlin opened up the dinner program, recognizing the hard work and dedication of the 2012 golf committee and our sponsors, then introduced the chairman of the Committee, Thomas Ryan to welcome Bob McCann and present him with The American Ireland Fund 2012 Leadership Award.
As a longtime Board Director of The American Ireland Fund, Bob McCann addressed the full room of supporters with a heartfelt message about the importance of philanthropy and, how his experience with The American Ireland Fund has provided him with lifelong friends, unforgettable experiences and has connected him back to his heritage in a meaningful way.
Committee member Anthony Callaghan presented the awards to the top golfers, including committee member Brian Travers who won for “the longest drive.” After a spirited live auction of a fantastic 2013 US Open tennis package, donated by committee member Pat Leahy, the guests enjoyed Macanudo Cigars, provided by General Cigar Corp. and the bar was re-opened.
Special thanks to our great sponsors including: Gibbons Law, UBS, Broadridge, Aramark, Miller Chevalier, Fidelity National Title, ING and our cocktail hour sponsor John Sharkey.
And also special thanks to our amazing golf committee: Thomas Ryan, Anthony Callaghan, Matthew McBride, Angus Miller, Michael Higgins, Brian Travers, Shane Naughton, William Frank, Chuck Reagan, Bernadette Heward Davida, Shaun Kelly, Patrick Leahy, Martin Kehoe, John O’Donoghue.
