Lake Ozark Rotary Raises More Than $30,000 At Record-Breaking Golf Tournament

Last month, the Lake Ozark Rotary Noon Club had one of the most successful golf tournaments in its history with over $30,000 raised for charity.

The Greg Gagnon Memorial tournament took place May 8 at The Oaks Golf Course at Margaritaville Lake Resort. The event was sold out with 144 golfers who played through some rain, though it turned out to be a beautiful day.

This year, the record breaking total was $30,341 from sponsorships, players, games, and the silent auction. These proceeds go into the Rotary club's charitable giving account, which helps local charities and provides scholarships for Osage and Eldon students.

"We are so grateful to be part of such a generous and giving community," said Janelle Stockstill, President of the Lake Ozark Rotary Noon Club. "We are thankful to all of those that played, sponsored, volunteered, and supported our event! The successful outing is a direct reflection of the Rotary Motto: 'Service Above Self.'"

Numerous contests were played throughout the tournament, including closest to the pin, longest drive, longest putt, and hole in one (win a car by Hulett Chevrolet-Buick-GMC).

A new addition this year was Gavin Yociss with Charity Golf International. Players could make a donation in return for Yociss to make a drive for them. Better scores were available based on players' donations, like $200 for a birdie.

"Having Charity Golf International and Gavin Yociss was a huge success the first year," said Clayton Bentzen, Senior VP for Central Bank and Golf Outing Co-Chair. "They were able to raise nearly $2,000 for the golf outing. It was a fun addition to our event."

Dustin Cox, Event Chair/Co-Chair, added, "I'm very grateful to have been involved with the tournament for the past nine years. It would not be possible without the many golfers, sponsors, volunteers, and The Oaks staff that show up year-in and year-out to help us deliver one of the best charity golf tournaments in the Lake area."

Rotary golf outings date back to 1984, two years after the Lake Ozark club was founded. Greg Gagnon, one of the founding members, unfortunately passed away in 2012. The tournament has been named in his honor, for extraordinary commitment and loyalty. The club said it is forever grateful for Gagnon's sacrifice and dedication to his family, community, and the Lake Ozark Rotary Noon Club.

A special thanks for the event goes to the Title Sponsor: Central Bank of Lake of the Ozarks. This is the 11th year that Central Bank has served in that role for the golf tournament.