Rotary Club of Poland's Chili Open
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08 Feb 2020 |
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Golf in the snow? Say what? Hearing “FORE!!” in NE Ohio in the winter months is unusual. But not for this group.
Since 1987, Poland Rotary & The Chili Open have raised over $1.20 Million for local charities. When we say local, we mean proximate to the Mahoning Valley. Community, charity, comradery are hallmarks of this fascinating story.
In 1985, spawned from a visit to Akron, Nelson Gustafson (AKA Gus), returned with this crazy idea. The Akron Society for the Blind was hosting a winter fundraising event – aka The Chili Open – and Gus wanted to bring it home to Poland. “Hey Larry, let’s make a golf course…in the middle of nowhere…in the snow…in the middle of winter… and ask folks to show up, participate, and spend money. It’ll be fun”, he said.
And per Larry Warren, a charter member of Poland Rotary along with Gus, “We all knew Gus was a little silly. And this idea of his seemed pretty farfetched. And yet, the club embraced it anyway. Gus had the vision and we followed. Now, more than 30 years later, look at where we are. It’s amazing!”
The modern-day Chili Open continues drawing crowds from NE Ohio and Western PA. This USGA sanctioned event takes place at Bedford Trails Golf Course near Poland Ohio. A heated club house and tents provide a comfortable alternative to the winter elements. Music, games, chili eating contests and other festive events are on display throughout the day. Lest we forget, golfing in the snow!
Join us Saturday February 8th for this premiere golfing tournament. Don’t forget your snow boots, your putter, and your smile. And oh, by the way, Gus…wherever you are looking down on us…thank you. FORE!!!!
Registration details:
chiliopengolfclassic.eventbrite.com
Sponsorship details:
Brandon Davis (Chili Open Chair) 330.565.9013
Dan Dull (Night at the Races Chair) 330.540.9745
To view more information on this event, click on this LINK