The Scarborough Mirror

Still, there is a delicious pleasure to be found in the occasional exquisite hit. That incredibly sweet and oh so fulfilling click of a ball struck just right. Of course, these are neither consistent nor common to all but a few who call golf their game.

In the summers when leisure was mine and cash filled my pockets it was my habit to play two or more rounds per week and then another on the weekend. Why, I even bought a membership to a fine golf club, just to ensure tee-off times.

Danny O'Leary was my mentor and a very fine golfer he was. When he was not available it was a cinch to talk Al Cohen into a match. The problem is both men were far better at the game than me.

Padriag Cosgrove was the exception. He was always keen to play and did not always score too impressively. He did well but could be beaten.

Four years ago Padraig and Des Arneill joined forces and put together the Bobby Evans Memorial Golf Tournament, an annual affair filled with fun and high jinks. The annual shotgun-start tournament attracts numerous players of my calibre. That is they play to have fun. The odd thing is that they almost always win a prize of some value anyway.

Bobby Evans was a well-loved man who died of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). This event was created to honour his memory and raise funds for the ALS Society. That disease is a rapidly progressive, fatal, neuromuscular disease

There are approximately 2,000 Canadians with ALS at this moment and those who help organize this tournament donate all the proceeds to help find a cure. They do this for Bobby and his family.

It has always been my intention to play in this event but finding the time is hard. Six years ago my oldest son and I founded a vineyard and this has proved extremely challenging, leaving almost no time for golf. If you are awake you are working.

This year's tournament may not see Padraig play either. An injury to his foot many months ago has led to complications, and ligament degeneration. Walking is painful, swinging a golf club challenging.

This means he will probably dedicate himself to 1,001 duties as others thrash and bash around the green grasses of Annandale Golf and Country Club this Aug. 18.

As usual he and others have lined up an impressive range of prizes including a top award for the lowest score. Even if one does not want to boast about his or her game there is the banquet to soothe any hurt. The $110 entrance fee also includes use of a cart.

It is worthwhile events such as this I miss not participating in the most. Especially when the majority of players are as much dedicated to having a good time as to aiding a worthy cause.

No doubt Padraig also misses the opportunity to play. He looks natty in plus fours! But, as he puts it, he may have a problem but it is a great deal better than having ALS.

If you want to take part, call him at 416-266-5887 or Des at 905-837-1403 to be a part of what promises to be a grand day!