Big Swings, Big Impact - Sportsfest Raises $30K For Youth

ALACHUA – The Alachua Chamber of Commerce’s 36th annual Sportsfest Golf Tournament teed off June 14 at Turkey Creek Golf Course, bringing together local teams, sponsors, and volunteers for a day of charity and competition.

Despite hot temperatures and rain, the tournament saw strong participation and fundraising success, generating more than $30,000 to support local schools and youth programs.

Held each year on the Saturday before Father’s Day, Sportsfest is a collaboration between the Alachua Chamber of Commerce, local businesses, and community partners. The event not only offers a day of friendly golf competition but also raises critical funding for educational and recreational initiatives across the community.

Earlier this year, the Chamber awarded $22,000 in grants to six local organizations using proceeds from the tournament. Grant recipients included Irby Elementary, Alachua Elementary, Santa Fe High School PTSA, the Santa Fe High School Hospitality Council, a joint Mebane Middle School/Kiwanis Club initiative, and the City of Alachua Recreation Department.

The tournament weekend began with the Corporate Sponsor Scramble on Friday, featuring more than 30 players. On Saturday, 96 players took to the course, joined by some 30 volunteers.

The competition concluded with the tournament’s signature Shootout, where qualifying teams vied for bragging rights and prize money. Tower Hill Insurance claimed victory in the Shootout and also took first place in Friday’s Corporate Scramble.

Tournament Results

Net Winners

1. Scherer Construction
2. Sysco
3. Edward Jones – Matt Surrency

Low Gross Score

1. Waste Pro
2. Sysco
3. New Generation Builders

Shootout Winner

Tower Hill Insurance

This year’s tournament was presented by Dollar General as the Tournament Sponsor and Capital City Bank as the Shootout Sponsor. More than 50 sponsors contributed through hole sponsorships, raffle donations, hospitality stations, and corporate team entries. Raffle prizes ranged from gift cards and hotel stays to TVs and new golf equipment, all donated by area businesses.

The Sportsfest Committee recognized all tournament sponsors with a special shoutout to hospitality sponsors Mi Apa Latin Café, Conestogas Restaurant, and Coca-Cola for keeping players and volunteers fueled throughout the day.

“This tournament is more than just a great time—it’s a tradition rooted in giving back,” said Sportsfest Committee Chair Michelle Vickers. “Thank you, Alachua, for always showing up and showing out!”

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