CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 courses in the area they all say they have exceeded their golf rounds from the previous year by several thousand rounds, except for Audubon Park Golf Course, which was closed for several months during the pandemic and still has not returned to full staff. But after talking to the non-profits it's quite a different story.They aren't able to boast about the benefits of golf and it's not just the financial toll but it's their story they haven't been able to tell and the benefits of being able to market themselves to their players. My hope is that when you read this article you think of how many times you've played golf since this started and remember how many times you played in a golf tournament with a group of friends. It's quite a different experience to go play a round and enjoy the moment but when you're playing in a charity tournament that one round means so much more.You are getting a fun day of golf with food, beverage, a nice gift, awards and most importantly helping an organization that touches our community.Who's your favorite charity? Have you checked on them lately? They need you now more than ever. It is unclear what the future of tournaments will look like this year. Even the Zurich Classic of New Orleans doesn't know to what extent or even if fans will be allowed, but to me they are the beacon of hope that golf tournaments will return.They continue to be the golf and charitable leaders in our community.The charities they help in the community with the millions of dollars they donate is immeasurable. I was fortunate enough to learn everything I know about running a golf tournament by being the Tournament Coordinator and Director of Events for the Fore!Kids Foundation for more than 10 years. Many people don't know that Fore!Kids Foundation is the non-profit organization that has dedicated itself to hosting the Zurich Classic since 1938.The only other time there was no tournament other than last year was during WWII. They are seasoned professionals who have a love for the game, the city and the charities they help. It is the lessons I learned during that time and the 20 years after that have helped me assist over 1,900 tournaments, raise millions of dollars for charity and create a trusted business in the Greater New Orleans area. I truly believe a golf tournament can be different for any organization and it should have its own identity. In 2004, I saw a need for helping non-profits create tournaments that offered more of an experience for the player while meeting or exceeding their budget goal. Golf courses also benefit from my services because the tournaments I bring them are organized so they can staff appropriately for the day. Don't get me wrong — running a golf tournament is NOT easy. It requires organization, hard work, a good committee and an understanding of the dynamics of how to get the most out of your event.This is what I have learned in my 30 years. I enjoy sharing that knowledge so non-profits can TEE TO GREEN GOLF MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021 ONLINE ISSUE PAGE 5 reach their goals and CEOs can be proud of the event they have invited their most important clients to attend. As they say, "this too shall pass!" I don't know about you but I'm ready for this to pass quickly and look forward to a brighter and more creative golf tournament future! If you are interested in hosting a tournament and would like a free consultation please go to www.yourgolfevent.net or contact me at baresgolf@gmail.com or 504.513.4766. Please know I am located in the Greater New Orleans area, but have worked in other areas of the state and other parts of the country. No job is too big or too small!
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