The James E. Vos Memorial Golf Invitational: 2010 James E. Vos Memorial Tournament Invitations Announced

A Buddies Trip...A Lasting Legacy

"When buddie's golf succeeds it resuscitates the soul. We return to our lives as if from a spiritual retreat, reminded by imperfect pastors that we ought to quit chasing perfection and enjoy life." Golf Digest, December 2009.

A lesson like that knows no offseason. In 1988 four friends hatched an idea to spend two days in northern Michigan competing in three two-man events over three different courses--the winning team earning a full-course dinner and bragging rights until next year. It was right after the first 36-hole day, sitting on the deck at Shanty Creek Resort, watching the sun set over Lake Bellaire, reliving shots hit stoney and stone-like, mesmerized by a fervent purple and pink sky, the four friends instinctively knew, "This is perfect."

A trip was born, a lasting legacy begun. Since that first trip, friends and family have gathered each June, bound by the rich traditions of the game and lasting friendships forged in the cathedrals and cellars of Michigan golf: Boyne, Treetops, Garland, Wuskowhan, The Legend, Cedar River, The Chief, Wicked Trick, I mean, Crooked Stick, Bay Harbor, A-ga-ming, Black Forest, Antrim Dells, and countless others.

What began as four friends, 54 holes over two days has grown to as many as 28 golfers, 162 holes over 4 days. We are bound by the very things that make up the pillars of golf: love, honor, and respect.

Sunday, January 31, 2010

2010 James E. Vos Memorial Tournament Invitations Announced

Byron Center - January 31, 2010

The James E. Vos Memorial Tournament Committee announced today invitations have been sent out for its 2010 tournament scheduled for June 9-12 at A-Ga-Ming Golf Club in Kewadin, MI.

Overlooking beautiful Torch Lake, A-Ga-Ming hosts the 23rd annual event for a surprising second consecutive year. Traditionally held at major Michigan resorts Garland, Boyne, and Treetops, the tournament made a surprise selection in choosing A-Ga-Ming, causing some longstanding participants to worry. The worry was in vain as the Sundance course proved a perfect venue for the tournament and the on-property facilities warm and inviting for the players. The only drawback for the return is the much maligned Torch course. Hearing player dissatisfaction with the Torch, the tournament committee moved the Friday morning 2-man match play 20-minutes north to historic Belvedere Golf Club, Tom Watson's boyhood summer course.

Excitement is already building for the 2010 tournament. Even before invitations have been mailed, confirmed attendees include two-time Stroke Saver Trophy (MVP) winner, Dan VanderWal and his son, first-timer, Kyle VanderWal. A related story on this will be posted in February. Also confirming attendance are VanderWal's nemesis, Chris Grek, and tournament photographer, John Mulder.

Unconfirmed but receiving invitations this week include:

Mark Rice (tournament co-chair)
Jack Vos (tournament co-chair)
Jon Vos
Jim Vos
Thom Anema
Dick Anema
Rodger Rice
Jeff Tanis
Dave Tanis
Donovan VanZee
Dirk VanZee
Bob Warners
Jim Warners
Ken Terpstra
Joel Neiwenhuis
Doug Gulker
Tony Vroon
Mark Vandenberge
Phil Vandenberge
Brian VanHall
Steve Elenbaas

A deposit of $100 is required to reserve a spot in the field of 16 by the end of March, 2010. Deposit checks should be made out to Mark Rice and mailed to:

2539 Marfield Dr. SW

Byron Center, MI 49315