Michigan City kicked off its 91st Annual Golf Tournament on July 24, which will continue on July 25, July 31, and August 1. The tournament is held at the Michigan City Municipal South Golf Course, and many woke up bright and early to check in before the starting 7:00 a.m. tee time.
Horizon Bank is sponsoring the event once again, much to the elation of the event’s tournament organizer, Marty Nieman. For years, the golf tournament drew over a hundred people, but about two years ago Nieman noticed the event attendance drop nearly in half.
“That’s when we brought Horizon Bank in,” said Nieman. “They were the start of everything and made all of this possible.”
This year, attendance numbers are set to clock in around 120 participants. Nieman identified that Horizon Bank was able to provide perks like sponsorships and prizes that would draw La Porte County golf players out to the event.
The sign-up fee was $60, and the city also reduced the $42 green fee to under $25 thanks to Horizon Bank’s sponsorship. The tournament is open to all golfers, regardless of whether or not they are members of the Michigan City Municipal South Golf Course. For nonmembers participating in the tournament, each of the four rounds will cost just $25, including a cart.
Chris Magnuson, golf professional at Michigan City Municipal South Golf Course, explained that tournament competitors now come from all over thanks to Horizon Bank’s involvement.
“They’re from everywhere. We have a lot of regulars, a lot of guys from La Porte, and even a few guys from Chicago,” said Magnuson.
Magnuson also emphasized Horizon Bank’s impact on participation in the golf tournament.
“Last year, Horizon Bank sponsored and we went from 63 people to 95,” said Magnus. “Now, we’re up to 124 people.”
As the tournament’s attendance grew, more and more friendly faces came out to spend the day and the weekend with one another. Luckily, the morning began with clear skies and a nice breeze, and everyone was excited to be on the course.
“Most everyone knows everybody, and everybody’s really friendly here,” said Nieman. “Everyone’s here to have a good time and win money and prizes.”
While sharing his appreciation for the attendees, Nieman also gave credit to the event’s sponsors and organizers.
“It starts with Horizon Bank, and it starts with Chris Magnuson,” said Nieman.
Magnuson also thanks Horizon Bank and the city’s parks department for making the event possible.
For more information about the Michigan City Municipal South Golf Course, visit www.michigancitygolfcourse.com.