Disc Golf Stars Shine Bright for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

The sun-kissed fields of Bayonet & Blackhorse Country Club played host to some of the world's top disc golfers this weekend, but it was not just about the competition. The 2nd Annual St. Jude Disc Golf Charity Invitational was all about giving back to those who need it most - the brave young patients of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Tyler McBrian, Volunteer Coordinator for the event, proudly held up a check for $190,344 after the Awards Ceremony on Sunday afternoon. The staggering total was made possible by last-minute donations, silent auctions, and even a generous $10,000 matching gift from the PDGA. When the dust settled, the fundraising tally had more than doubled its initial goal of just over $145,000.

For those involved in organizing the event, it's been a year-round effort to bring the disc golf community together for this worthy cause. Annabelle Udo-O'Malley, St. Jude Senior Regional Event Specialist, described her experience as "the most surreal work experience" she's ever had. And while it may have taken its toll on the volunteers, the end result is well worth it.

"This is for the kids," was the unofficial motto of the weekend, and it seemed to resonate with even the most competitive players. Jared Roan, who tied for second place alongside Nate Doss, explained how focusing on the true purpose of the event actually helped him improve his game during the final round. "When things started not going my way, I reminded myself that this is for St. Jude," he said. "These kids are going through something unimaginable, and St. Jude is giving them a life they never thought possible."

As Roan's words struck home with the audience, it was clear that the players had put their competitive spirits aside to support a greater cause. In the end, it was Ricky Wysocki who emerged victorious on the 18th hole, securing his second straight win and another thrilling finish on the PDGA Tour.

While the event may be over for now, the fundraising efforts are far from finished. Donations can still be made until June 30th at stjude.org/discgolf or pdga.com/give. Every contribution counts in helping to make a difference in the lives of these incredible young patients.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/190k-and-counting-donations-st-jude-disc-golf-charity-invitational-comes-exciting-end