--- Watch a video of the tournament at the bottom of this page. --- On a windy Sunday afternoon, 28 golfers of all experience levels headed to Paradise for an 18-hole tournament with the proceeds going to a wildlife foundation.
The Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Foundation's Wild n' Out Wildlife Golf Tournament was played at Tuscan Ridge Golf Club at noon with a $100 buy-in. The event was organized by Chico State students Joanna Lavenberg, Emma Elfving, Sophie Shafter, Donna Hale and Chico State golfer Julia Hood as a communications class project.
"At this point in time, we're just trying to raise awareness about the foundation," Hood said. "We're hoping to raise at least $250 to $500. Anywhere in that range would be successful."
The earnings, after paying for use of the course and raffle prizes, will most likely be used by the foundation to buy supplies for the animals and rebuild structures damaged by the January storm, she said.
The 14-year-old Durham-based foundation provides shelter and rehabilitation for a variety of wildlife, from Bengal tigers and African lions to a giant Burmese python. The nonprofit organization also provides opportunities for college students to receive units toward their degrees and experience working with wild animals, according to its Web site.
"I think any sort of charity we can do will be helpful for the Kirshner wildlife foundation," Hale said. "They're always needing donations of any sort, so no matter what, this tournament will help them."
The students also held a silent auction with various items. After the golfers finished they had the chance to get their pictures taken with animals brought from the foundation, including a desert tortoise and a python.
An array of student, parent and local golfers were at the golf course.
Junior Matt Smith paired with his father and was five strokes under par after six holes. He looked like he would finish with the lowest score of the tournament, he said.
"It's actually a pretty easy course," Smith said. "It's really short and the greens are rolling good."
Travis Stearns was in a group of four and one hole ahead of the Smiths as he blasted a 400-foot drive from the tee. He is a regular at the course, and is said to have the ability to drive the ball about 470 feet, according to his teammates.
"If the wind's low it's a pretty fun course," Stearns said. "If it's hit or miss and kinda swirlin' like it is today, it gets pretty tough."
The course was packed with golfers, but there were a few less than expected for the tournament.
"We would've liked to see a little bit more people," Hood said. "But we had a few groups show up so I think we did pretty well."
With all proceeds going to the foundation, the donators and five student coordinators were able to see their funds going to good use.
"It's really nice to be able to give back to the community," Hale said. "If anyone has time or money to donate, the foundation is always looking and willing."
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