Mankato Golf Tourney Raises $20,000

What started as a golfing fundraiser that barely made par has become one of the Mankato Salvation Army’s biggest events of the year.

On May 9 more than 110 golfers chipped and putted their way toward raising $20,000 during the Mankato Salvation Army’s 7th Annual Golf Classic.

“Every tournament just gets better and better,” said Mankato Army administrator Captain Bill Mealy, adding that the first tournament in the early 2000s raised only $3,000.

A big reason for the growth has been Subway Corp, which recently began sponsoring the tournament and other Salvation Army activities.

The day featured 30 teams of four whose $100 entry fee earned them lunch, 18 holes of golf, dinner and a chance to win golf and other merchandise in a silent auction.

“What a great experience,” said golfer Paul Taylor, a teammate of Mealy’s and manager of the Mankato Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant. “It’s great supporting The Salvation Army any way we can.” 

All money raised will be used to fund the Men’s Seasonal Shelter, a Salvation Army emergency facility that operates from November to March.

Check out photos of the golf tournament here.