The James E. Vos Memorial Golf Invitational: Final Tournament Details

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.

Monday, June 7, 2010

Final Tournament Details

With the James E. Vos Memorial Tournament just days away the tourament committee announced today the tournament's official start times and events. The tournament officially kicks off Wednesday evening, June 9 at A-ga-ming Maplewood Ridge Condos with "The Gathering"--drinks, introductions, and fellowship. It is during this time we will toast the event's 23rd year, introduce new members and, once all participants have arrived, pick teams for the week and pairings for Thursday's rounds.

Wednesday, June 9
9:00pm "The Gathering"
-Welcome
-Introductions of New Invitees
-The Drawing of Teams
-The Naming of the Teams (selected by 2009's MVP)
-Thursday Pairings
-Retire

Thursday, June 10
7:30am - Sundance Course
2-man best ball match play event

1:30pm - Sundance Course
2-man best ball STROKE play event

-Evening libations
-Pizza supper in the condos OR dinner in Elk Rapids
-Friday Pairings
-Retire

Friday, June 11
8:30am - Belvedere Golf Club, Charlevoix, MI (later tee time to accomodate travel to Charlevoix)
2-man best ball match play event

2:40pm - A-ga-ming Torch Course (later tee time to accomodate travel from Charlevoix)
2-man scramble event

-Evening libations
-Pizza supper OR dinner in Elk Rapids
-"The James E. Vos Memorial Tournament Toast"
-Saturday Singles Pairings
-Retire

Saturday, June 12
8:00am - Sundance Course
Singles match play event

-Awards Ceremony
-MVP Selection and Presentation
-Cheers, Goodbye's, and Well Wishes
-Homeward Bound

Remaining Trip Details
-Total Cost is $394.40. That represents a $25 increase from last year ($370). The increase is directly due to the decision to replace Friday morning's round (played last year on the Torch course) with Belvedere Golf Club in Charlevoix. You have all already paid a $100 deposit which will be subtracted from your bill. You outstanding bill at A-ga-ming should be $294.40.
-We are in the Maplewood Ridge Condos--same as last year. Upon arriving, check in at the front desk in the main A-ga-ming clubhouse--a hexagonal wood structure. If you arrive later in the evening the building may be darkened, but open. You will find your room keys on the desk inside the clubhouse with your name on them.
-Food is NOT included in this package. The condos are equiped with small kitchens. Those sharing condos would be advised to bring snacks, breakfast food, beverages, juice, etc. The small kitchen in the A-ga-ming clubhouse serves burgers and such for lunch. I also think (but am not 100% sure) they serve some hot breakfast items.

My contact information is:
markrice6963@msn.com
616-560-3360 cell