Mount Vernon Nazarene University Athletics is bringing two one-of-a-kind golf events to Knox County. MVNU Athletics Paw-3 Palooza Benefit, sponsored by Wendy’s and Park National Bank, will convert Irish Hills Golf Club to an 18-hole, all par-3 course on June 10.
“With the opportunity for a hole-in-one on all 18 holes, players will have the chance to take home various prize packages, ranging from Ohio State Season tickets to $10,000 cash,” Coordinator of Athletic Development Paul McNeal said.
“The 18 individuals who are closest to the pins on each hole during the scramble will get one more opportunity for a hole-in-one and a chance for $100,000. Someone is guaranteed to leave with a 5-day cruise,” he continued.
Event participants do not have to play golf to join in on the fun. In a separate event, Mayor Matt Starr and Fire Chief Chad Christopher will be in a Mount Vernon Fire Department ladder truck and release hundreds of numbered golf balls from the bucket onto the putting green. The four balls landing inside of, or closest to, a hole will reveal prize winners. Participants do not need to be present to win.
There will five winners of the golf ball drop, with the first ball in the hole winning $4,000.
“I wanted to come up with a different type of event that can draw people to take part, not only this year but for years to come. I had reached out to several development personnel and thought this would be something that everyone could rally around,” McNeal said.
Over the past 4 years, MVNU Athletics has strived to strengthen their position in the community. Through community service projects, business partnerships and a willingness to be a part of the city of Mount Vernon, MVNU has continued its growth toward teaching their student athletes to be “better citizens through sports.”
The benefit supports the university’s athletic department, with a portion of proceeds also going toward the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and the Mount Vernon Fire Department. Participants can register online and purchase numbered golf balls to enter for a chance to win.
“We are blessed to be able to help others. Supporting our local fire department is a no-brainer, and the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption is a great opportunity to reach out to the youth of America,” McNeal said. “We want to solidify our position in the community by offering exciting events and programs, as well as supporting other great causes.”
For more information on these two events, go to mvnupar3.com. To learn more about MVNU Athletics and their involvement in the community, follow them on Facebook or go to mvnucougars.com.
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