The Rhode Island Chapter of the Armenian Cultural Association of America, Inc. (ACAA-RI) hosted its 10th annual Armenian Open Golf Tournament at Triggs Memorial Golf Course in Providence on Sat., July 23. Melissa Danielian, chairperson of the tournament, proudly reported that this was one of the most successful tournaments to take place with close to 60 golfers and more than 30 tee signs.
The 19th hole after dinner, which took place during the raffle, with Gene Valicenti reading the name of a prize winner off to the right.
The tournament began with a putting contest with close to 25 participants. The players then took to the golf carts for the shotgun start. Each cart was marked with a 12 x 18 inch Armenian flag, which was a sight to see. Three service carts with 3 x 5 foot Armenian flags circled the course throughout the day with water, sports drinks, and snacks for all the golfers. Tarbox Hyundai offered participants a chance to win a car with a hole-in-one on a designated par three hole. Additional contests throughout the day consisted of longest drive, closest to the pin, and a “money” hole.
Gene Valicenti, the most well-known TV news personality in Rhode Island, served as the emcee for the raffle, which consisted of 34 items thanks to many generous donors. Valicenti, whose wife is Armenian, entertained the players and guests with his knowledge of the Armenian language and the Rhode Island Armenian community.
Hagop Donoyan, chairperson of the ACAA-RI, expressed his sincere gratitude to the first and second place team finishers for donating their winnings back to the ACAA-RI. Donoyan explained the funds raised from this event are used to bring in lecturers, provide monetary awards to teachers of the Armenian Genocide, sponsor student trips, as well as other programs that focus on Armenian education and knowledge.
The 11th annual Golf Tournament will take place next year at Triggs Memorial Golf Course on Sat., July 22, 2017.
Source: Armenian Weekly
Link: ACAA-RI Hosts 10th Annual Golf Tournament