Putting for puppies

The community of Kelowna came together last Friday for the 10th year in a row to support a worthy local cause.

More than $76,000 was raised during the annual BC SPCA Charity Golf Tournament, held every June at the Sunset Ranch.

Kelowna Branch Manager Suzanne Pugh says the fact such a large sum of money was raised in one day goes to show just how generous people in this city are.

“People give their time, their hard earned money,” she says. “I recognize every single penny that everyone donates, whether it is coming from a sponsorship at the golf tournament or a lemonade store, every penny counts, and every penny is stewarding money for the animals.”

The Kelowna BC SPCA tournament is the biggest golf fundraising event right across the province for the organization according to CEO Craig Daniel.

“We rely on the generosity of British Columbian’s to allow us to do the work that we do, so this is a great opportunity for us to increase our programs and keep great programs running into next year."

Several local sponsors help to carry the event, including builder and philanthropist Kevin Edgecombe, who was the previous title sponsor for seven years.

“It blows me away how successful this tournament has been,” exclaims Edgecombe. “In nine years, they are probably averaging $70,000 a year, it is phenomenal for just a bunch of golfers, who are not really serious golfers but people out here having a good time, and supporting a great cause."

Everyone has their reasons for sponsoring, although most of the motivation to come out and play is for the animals.

Mike Houff with Kal-Tire says his family has adopted several animals from the SPCA and the pets bring a lot of joy to his children.

Margaret McCall of Lynx Brand Fencing, says she has been a foster mom as well as an adopted mom of SPCA furry friends for many years.

“We care about them, our whole company does."

All proceeds from the event will go to operating the Kelowna Branch and caring for local abandoned, abused and unwanted animals.