Eighty-four players forming 21 teams teed off at the 9th Annual Bob Watt Memorial Golf Tournament on Monday, June 5, at the renowned Bright’s Creek in rural Mill Spring, North Carolina. Through the generous support of sponsors, the tournament raised over $55,000 for Montreat College athletics programs and fitness facilities.
Named in honor of 2000 Montreat College Athletics Hall of Fame inductee and long-time board of trustees member Robert Watt ’47, who passed away in 2011, the annual event serves as the key fundraiser that champions the mission of Montreat’s Christ-centered athletics programs. Bob Watt, Jr., made a heartfelt appearance at the tournament, reminding participants of the legacy left behind by his father and his love for Montreat College and Cavalier athletics.
The tournament was presented by Aramark and Civil Design Concepts. Led by Jesse Gardner ’02, a team from Civil Design Concepts left the 18th green with the top spot and the lowest score in the tournament. Gardner is a senior project engineer with Civil Design Concepts, as well as a member of the President’s Advisory Council at Montreat College and the Cavaliers Athletics Hall of Fame. In addition to being Montreat’s all-time leader in scoring, assists, rebounds, and steals when he graduated, his shots on the links were impressive as well.
“We are incredibly grateful to all the participants, sponsors, and volunteers who made the 9th Annual Bob Watt Memorial Golf Tournament a resounding success,” said Director of Athletics Garrett Jones. “Their unwavering support and dedication to Montreat College and Cavalier athletics make a significant impact on our student-athletes and our facilities.”
Surrounded by rustic mountain scenery, Bright’s Creek is a challenging, yet player-friendly retreat designed by golf course architect Tom Fazio. Fazio himself hails the course as one of his favorite designs.