Outside of the PGA, there are generally three types of golfers. First we have the avid golfer who is on the course or range every chance they have. Then there is the weekend hacker who tries to play a round once or twice per month and "practice" at the range at least four times per year. The weekend golfer may even practice in the back yard, or when the wife is not home, swing a club in the house. Finally, there is the charity golfer (I currently fit this mold) who plays the occasional tournament to help an organization raise needed funds.

Such was the case as I headed out to San Bernardino to participate in the 23rd Annual Golf Classic to benefit CHSB. I arrived at the course 30 minutes before registration was due to open so I headed out to the putting green to practice. Around 9 AM I began to notice something was wrong with the event - no one was setting up a registration table and banners announcing the event were missing. Acting like I knew what I was doing (it's what guys do, act cool) I headed back to my car, read the flyer and discovered I was at the wrong golf course. I was at Sierra Lakes Golf Course (where I would play in August) but I needed to be at Arrowhead Country Club. So I called my wife and asked her for directions (she was laughing while she looked it up on her computer). In short order I found myself at the right golf course and with a lot of activity going on.

CHSB puts on a great golf tournament! Arrowhead golf course is challenging but not a killer like Augusta National. The volunteers make the registration process smooth and the guests are friendly and engaging. The tournament is hosted by Kellee Booth, LPGA pro, and directed by the energetic Ms. Kimiko Ford, Vice President for Mission and Support Services. The event's goal is to raise $75,000 to purchase critical patient care equipment for the maternity unit. The format for the tournament (Best Ball) made for a quick round which placed us back in the club house in time for an unbelievable dinner prepared by Ron Burton, Sodexho manager at CHSB, and Jesus Reyes, Executive Chef (with the support of Sodexho chefs from across southern California). The dinner included raffle prizes, silent auction, and an impressive live auction led by the Mistress of Ceremonies and auctioneer, Ms. Martha Green.

Overall the event was great, the golf was fun, and the food was terrific. There's a saying, "A bad day of golf is better than a good day at work." I won't go that far (my boss may read this story) but I have already booked two more charity tournaments this year.