2006 Claflin University UNCF Golf Tournament 1st  Place Winners  L-R: Dwayne Harper, Claflin UNCF Chair, with Golfers Sam Brown, Ricky Hill and Ricky Brown

One of Claflin University’s biggest community sponsored events, The United Negro College Fund’s (UNCF) 7^th Annual Golf Tournament takes place on Wednesday, June 20^th at the Hillcrest Golf Course, beginning at 1pm.

With top prizes of a 328i BMW Coupe, sponsored by BMW of Columbia and $10 thousand in cash, sponsored by Sub Station II, the tournament is expected to attract over 100 participants from the Orangeburg area as well as out-of-town golfers swinging for the hole-in-one prizes at the course’s 12^th and 2^nd holes respectively.

“This event is a great opportunity for Claflin and the Orangeburg Community to work together to help outstanding students,” said Tournament Director, Joseph L. Keitt. “We‘re grateful for the sponsorships we’ve received from the business community and private donors so far this year.”

In addition to offering a $10 thousand dollar prize for a hole-in-one, Sub Station II is providing all the sandwiches for participants. KFC will prepare a meal for the end of play and Orangeburg Distributors is donating beverages for on-and-off the course play.

“Our goal this year,” Keitt announced, “is to have displays from two sponsors at each hole. In addition we’re planning to have a host of door prizes. Participants will really enjoy the afternoon of golfing, gifts and the hospitality we’re offering. It’s a great combination of fun and fundraising.”

Over the years, generous donations and support of UNCF events have helped Claflin to raise nearly three quarters of a million dollars. The University will receive nearly $30 for each dollar it raises during this year’s UNCF fundraising campaign.

The tournament was first organized in 2000 by Orangeburg businessman, Alonzo Middleton, to establish an opportunity for the community to support the University’s students. The number of sponsors and participants has grown each year.

“Students are good customers for many area businesses and the University is, as well.” Keitt pointed out. “It’s a wonderful way for businesses to demonstrate their appreciation by supporting the tournament, which helps our students to receive an excellent education.”

            Claflin University has, for the past 11 years, been ranked in U.S. News and World Report as a top tier educational institution. Recently, the Chronicle of Higher Education reported that Claflin has the second highest retention rate among very selective HBCUs and Consumer Digest placed the University third in a national listing of the five best value private colleges and universities.

For additional information about the golf tournament, contact Joseph L. Keitt, UNCF Tournament Director, at 803-534-6521 or Dr. Iris Bomar, Campus Coordinator for the tournament at 803-535-5376.