The annual Alberni Valley Charity Golf Classic saw a full slate of golfers this year, with 34 teams teeing it up to raise funds for charity.

The first-place team on Saturday, July 6 was Ridge View Team with a score of 56. The team, sponsored by Sasha Visona of Ridge View Health & Performance, was made up of Jess Black, Lee Orten, Jeff Dagge, Kole Paulsen and Rhys Hill.

Joey Kenward, who has been an announcer and player at the charity classic for the past 16 years, made an appearance, although he wasn’t able to play due to a diagnosis of leukemia.

“I am performing the way doctors hoped after my stem cell transplant,” said Kenward. “I am happy to be back here. This is my favourite tournament and I look forward to playing again next year. Thank you for having me back.”

The men’s closest to the pin on No. 4 went to Rob Anderson, No. 17 went to Jess Black and No. 13 went to Dave Turner. The women’s longest drive on No. 12 was won by Carly Haggard. The men’s long drive went to Jeff Dagge on No. 7.

The winner of the putting contest and a $500 gift certificate for Hertel Meats was Leo Fitzgerald, with a score of 7. Fitzgerald was having a lucky day and also won the 50/50 draw of $1,150.

Winners of the golf ball drop were Julie Pike, Michelle Aston and Gord Bonner.

Winner of the “Do you have a water or the only vodka drink?” was Dale Bondue, who chose tickets to a Vancouver Canucks game as his prize.

City councillor Cindy Solda was the auctioneer for the live auction portion of the evening entertainment, and there was live music following the auction.

Funds raised throughout the tournament will go towards BC Children’s Hospital, the Alberni Valley Hospice Society, Outreach Therapy and the Alberni Valley Rescue Squad.