It was the silver jubilee rendering of Western Nevada College Foundation’s Golf for Education tournament on Sept. 27.

The 18-hole scramble tournament at Toiyabe Golf Club attracted business partners and supporters of the college’s mission of preparing students with the skills to become successful in Nevada’s workforce.

For the 25^th edition of the event, players, volunteers, sponsors and tournament organizers were treated to a postcard day with little wind and warm temperatures, creating prime scoring conditions for the 33 participating teams.

“The WNC Golf for Education Tournament — now in its 25th year — was a hole-in-one in every way! WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe said. “We had a great turnout from our business partners along with fantastic volunteers. A big thanks to the WNC Foundation Board, our nursing students, and college staff for making this event a memorable success!”

Jeff Love & Friends capitalized on the format and ways for teams to shrink their scores, firing a 31-under-par 41 to win the title by five strokes over Team Davison. The winning team included Love, Stephen Garman, Fernando Serrano and Sean Goshert. Representing the runner-up team were Sean Davision, Brad Wick, Vince Christenson and Connor Morze.

Chick-fil-A provided players with the fuel for their low scoring, presenting a delicious breakfast. Players also enjoyed a long drive contest, on-course refreshments, raffle prizes, a golf ball launcher with more length than Bryson DeChambeau, a tasty BBQ lunch, an awards ceremony and a team photo capturing their generous day away from work.

“Thanks to all of WNC's supporters who participated; you've not only enjoyed a fantastic day of golf but also played a crucial role in creating a brighter future for students in need,” said WNC Chief Advancement Officer and Foundation Executive Director Niki Gladys. “Your support ensures these students can earn the certifications necessary for securing meaningful employment and boosting Nevada's growing economy. Thank you to the amazing community for uniting and driving positive change through education.”

Besides ideal weather, the opportunity to purchase mulligans and up to 40 feet of putting string helped teams lower their scores.

The WNC Wildcat team shot an impressive 9-under-par 63, including a 50-foot eagle putt by Tyler Golden on the par-5 10th hole. The Wildcat team also included Travis Carr and Nigel Harrison. 

Thomas Bunker of Briggs Electric won the putting contest ahead of the tournament, cozying an 85-foot putt within 13 inches of the cup. Other players to stand out individually were Robin Ponte, women’s closest to the pin, 6 feet, 7 inches; Greg Overby, men’s closest to the pin, 6 feet; Ponte, women’s longest drive; and David Wheelock, men’s longest drive.

WNC Foundation is grateful for the participation and contributions of players, businesses and volunteers in making this event memorable. Special thanks go to visionary tournament sponsors Metcalf Builders Inc., Briggs Electric Inc., Classic Finishes, Allison MacKenzie Law Firm, Greater Nevada Credit Union, Lyon County School District, Comstock, Washoe Wealth Advisors, Carson Valley Health, Dick Campagni’s Capital Ford, Dick Campagni’s Carson Toyota, Michael Hohl Subaru, Chick-fil-A Restaurants, Southwest Gas Corporation, Oasis Academy, Northern Nevada Development Authority, United Federal Credit Union, Advanced Health Healthcare of Reno, Washoe Tribe of Nevada & California, Spanish Springs Construction/Teichert, Economic Development Authority of Western NV, Quick Space, Plumas Bank, KNPB, Cheek Construction and Pacific Office Automation.

To view a gallery of photos from the tournament, including shots of each team, go to wnc.edu/foundation/golf-for-education.