Nov 4, 2013

HMSHost Charity Golf Tournament Raises $100,000 For Tampa-St. Petersburg Organizations

Twenty-fourth annual charity golf tournament and auction is a hole-in-one!

ORLANDO, FL—The 24th annual HMSHost Classic drew roughly 250 golfers to the Reunion Resort and Club in Reunion, Florida, just outside of Orlando, raising approximately $100,000 for local charities. Every year, foursomes of airline industry executives, clients, vendors, and staff of global restaurateur HMSHost gather to compete in a friendly game of golf to support vital organizations in the Tampa Bay – St. Petersburg community. On October 24th, sponsors helped raise funds by partaking in the golf tournament, a dinner reception, a live auction, and a silent auction. Proceeds benefit All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, The First Tee of Tampa Bay, and CORE (Children of Restaurant Employees).

The HMSHost Classic has a rich history in the community, and over the past 23 years the event has raised more than $800,000 for charities including All Children’s Hospital, ALS Foundation, and The First Tee Tampa Bay. This year’s tournament was presented by Anheuser-Busch and platinum sponsors included Molson Coors, Proximo Spirits, and Samuel Adams. Players enjoyed elegant festivities and scenery while golfing over the Reunion Resort and Club’s Arnold Palmer designed Legacy Course and the Tom Watson designed Independence Course.

“This tournament seems to grow with each passing year, and it gives me great joy to see so many members of the HMSHost family come together, offering both time and money, in support of a greater cause,” said HMSHost Chief Commercial Officer Jeff Yablun. “In all regards, this year’s tournament was a complete success, and witnessing the enthusiasm generated for our community was a magnificent experience.”

Live and silent auctions took place during a festive dinner reception following the golf tournament. Up for grabs at the live auction were various vacation destinations including a golf trip to Scotland, tickets to the Masters, the French wine country, a “James Bond” location tour, and more. High bidders at the silent auction took home items ranging from sports memorabilia to large format wines and jewelry.

All Children’s Hospital, part of Johns Hopkins Medicine, is a leader in West Florida for pediatric treatment, education, research and advocacy. The First Tee is an organization that is also devoted to youth, with a focus on shaping the lives of young people by reinforcing values like integrity, respect, and perseverance through the game of golf. CORE (Children of Restaurant Employees) helps provide funds to restaurant employees who have a disabled child.