Uko Akpanuko
Daily Herald
The long-standing Boreal Healthcare Foundation fundraiser is back with a reinvigorated format.
The Lynx Northern Healthcare Classic is scheduled to run June 27 at the Cooke Municipal Golf Course in Prince Albert. The fundraiser is organized by the Boreal Healthcare Foundation to help raise money for the Victoria Hospital.
Boreal Healthcare Foundation CEO Cody Barnett said they wanted to change things up to give participants a new experience.
“There’s so many good charity organizations that hold event all year long, and it’s really hard for charities to stand out,” Barnett said. “It gets to the point where one gala feels like the next gala, and one golf tournament feels like the next golf tournament. We were looking at ways we could create a really fun and unique atmosphere for our supporters.”
This year’s new format and new venue involves two-person scramble with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. They have also introduced two different flights: a championship flight for those who are more competitive, and a Party Flight for those who just want to have a good time.
“Sometimes it’s hard to get four people together to take a day off work to go play in a charity golf tournament,” Barnett said.
“It’s a bit of a different format for the typical charity tournament, but pretty common in club championship formats and stuff like that…. We think it will be a lot of fun.”
The Cooke Municipal Golf course is also a new location. Previously, the Boreal Healthcare Foundation partnered on a golf tournament fundraiser at Emma Lake for the Herb Bassett Home.
“Bring it back into Prince Albert makes it a little easier for people to get out and support us,” Barnett said.
Funds raised at this year’s golf tournament will go towards equipment purchases that enhance the level of care at Victoria Hospital. Barnett said they work with hospital teams to determine where the greatest need lies.
“The list of equipment needs are far greater than what we can support on any given year,” Barnett said. “(It’s) everything from new fetal monitors to some surgical equipment, so there’s lots of opportunity.”
In addition to the new format and venue, the foundation has created an early bird option. Teams that register by April 30 can secure a spot for $400. The fee covers golf with carts for two, dinner, giveaways, and the chance to win prizes.
–with files from Jason Kerr/Daily Herald
