The Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their 16th annual Golf Classic on Friday, June 13 at Cottonwood Golf Course.
The event held each June is the marquee fundraising event for the Chamber and Visitor Centre. This much anticipated tournament brings together close to 100 business and government leaders to golf, network, win prizes, bid on auction items, and of course, have loads of fun.
“Normally 18 teams but this year it has increased to 21," said the Chamber's Jacquie Chellew. "That being said we have space left for three more teams.”
Funds raised directly support the Chamber's year-round efforts to promote and advocate for local businesses, deliver networking and educational opportunities, and support economic development initiatives in the community, said Chellew.
"Additionally, proceeds help the visitor centre enhance tourism services, create welcoming experiences for visitors, and showcase our town as a vibrant destination," she said. "Golfer participation helps us continue to drive business success and community growth.”
The 18 hole event begins with registration at noon with the golfing starting at 1:30 p.m. with a shotgun start. Included in the tournament is dinner, catered by the chefs at Cottonwood Golf Course, between 6:30 and 7 p.m.
Part of the excitement is the awarding of the tournament prizes.
“Prizes are given to the winning team, most sportsmanlike team, men's longest drive and KP (closest to the pin) and women’s longest drive and KP. There is a putting contest as well, sponsored by the Mactier Group," said Chellew. "Prizes this year include many amazing, generous donations from our amazing members and community supporters.”
Other opportunities for locals, businesses or individuals to be involved in the tournament are as a hole sponsor, cart fleet sponsor, or donating a prize or auction item.
Those interested can visit the Chamber website, www.ladysmthcofc.com, for more information and opportunities.
"We also thank sponsors such as the Ladysmith and District Credit Union who are our title sponsor," said Chellew. "Also Nanaimo Airport and FMC Holdings for being the two tournament sponsors and all the other businesses and organizations that are behind the Chamber and support this great event.”
“Chambers are far more than hosts of networking events or organizers of local promotions," said Roberta Bowman, executive director of the Ladysmith Chamber. "They are the united voice of business, advocating tirelessly at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels for policies and decisions that support economic growth, remove barriers, and foster innovation. Behind every policy position, event, or business directory lies a greater purpose: to strengthen our local economy and empower our members to thrive.
“At the heart of this work is our membership," said Bowman. "Chamber members, from small business owners to large employers and non-profits, are the foundation of everything we do. A Chamber membership is not simply a line item in your marketing budget or a decal on your storefront. It is an investment in your business, your community, and the broader business environment in which we all operate.
"In Ladysmith and beyond, Chamber members are demonstrating what’s possible when businesses unite for a common cause," she said. "Whether it’s advocating for improved infrastructure, supporting workforce development, or revitalizing key community assets, the Chamber is a platform for progress.
As we move forward together, I encourage every business — whether long-established or newly opened — to consider not only the value of Chamber membership but the opportunity it presents to be part of something bigger. Together, we are stronger. Together, we are the voice of business."
