The James E. Vos Memorial Golf Invitational: Historic 3rd Generation Sets Stage for New Era

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, May 2, 2010

Historic 3rd Generation Sets Stage for New Era

The 2010 James E. Vos Tournament will take an historic step toward the future as its members gather together for their annual June event. For the first time ever, second generation and long time tournament favorite, Dan VanderWal will be joined by his son, third generation Kyle "The Kid" VanderWal.

With the return of first generation, Dave Tanis and Rodger Rice, the James E. Vos Tournament will, for the first time, host three generations of golfers.

Kyle Aaron VanderWal is twenty years old, stands 5' 11" tall and weighs in at a very limber 145 lbs. Currently a sophomore at Calvin College, Kyle is majoring in business in hopes of earning a B.A. in Business Administration with an emphasis in marketing.

Kyle's self-proclaimed prediction for his A-Ga-Ming scores are 82-84.

In addition to golf, Kyle likes basketball, tennis, chillin with the boys, and hanging out Kayla, his girlfriend of three years. (Yowza!)

Welcome Kyle! We hope you play against your dad and put him to shame finally. Some one has to.